UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM N-CSR
CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED
MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES
Investment Company Act file number | 811-05447 | |||||
AMERICAN CENTURY QUANTITATIVE EQUITY FUNDS, INC. | ||||||
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter) | ||||||
4500 MAIN STREET, KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI | 64111 | |||||
(Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip Code) | |||||
CHARLES A. ETHERINGTON 4500 MAIN STREET, KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI 64111 | ||||||
(Name and address of agent for service) | ||||||
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: | 816-531-5575 | |||||
Date of fiscal year end: | 06-30 | |||||
Date of reporting period: | 06-30-2019 |
ITEM 1. REPORTS TO STOCKHOLDERS.
ANNUAL REPORT | |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
AC Alternatives® Disciplined Long Short Fund |
Investor Class (ACDJX) |
I Class (ACDKX) |
A Class (ACDQX) |
C Class (ACDHX) |
R Class (ACDWX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
President's Letter | 2 | |
Performance | 3 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
President’s Letter |
Jonathan Thomas
Dear Investor:
Thank you for reviewing this annual report for the period ended June 30, 2019. Annual reports help convey important information about fund returns, including market factors that affected performance during the reporting period. For additional investment and market insights, we encourage you to visit our website, americancentury.com.
Markets Overcame Heightened Volatility
Most broad large- and mid-cap stock indices ended the 12-month period with gains. However, these positive results masked some severe volatility, which led to wide performance swings. For example, the S&P 500 Index returned -6.85% in the first half of the period and 18.54% in the second half, leaving the index up 10.42% for the year. Even more dramatic, the S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index returned -21.91% in the first half of the reporting period, 13.34% in the second half, and -11.49% overall.
Fed’s Flip Fueled Investor Optimism
In the first half, mounting concerns about slowing global economic and earnings growth and Federal Reserve (Fed) policy soured investor sentiment. After raising rates in September, the Fed hiked again in December and delivered a surprisingly hawkish rate-hike outlook that worried investors and fueled a steep sell-off among riskier assets. Meanwhile, the risk-off climate sparked a flight to quality. Treasury yields plunged, triggering a rally among perceived safe-haven assets.
The new year brought a renewed sense of stability to financial markets and a key policy pivot from the Fed. The central bank abruptly and unexpectedly ended its rate-hike campaign and adopted a dovish tone amid moderating global growth and inflation. Additionally, investors’ worst-case fears about growth, trade and corporate earnings eased. Equity valuations appeared attractive, and a rally ensued. At the same time, Treasury yields continued to fall on moderating global growth data, muted inflation and accommodative central bank policy, which supported continued gains for interest rate-sensitive assets.
Looking ahead, we expect volatility to remain a formidable factor as investors react to global growth and trade trends, central bank policy and geopolitical developments. We believe this scenario underscores the importance of using professionally managed portfolios in pursuit of your investment goals. We appreciate your continued trust and confidence in us.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Thomas
President and Chief Executive Officer
American Century Investments
2
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | |||||
Average Annual Returns | |||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | Since Inception | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | ACDJX | 1.49% | 5.84% | 10.86% | 10/31/11 |
HFRX Equity Hedge Index | — | -4.24% | 0.66% | 2.32% | — |
MSCI World Index | — | 6.33% | 6.60% | 10.10% | — |
Russell 1000 Growth Index | — | 11.56% | 13.38% | 15.68% | — |
I Class | ACDKX | 1.71% | 6.06% | 11.08% | 10/31/11 |
A Class | ACDQX | 10/31/11 | |||
No sales charge | 1.28% | 5.58% | 10.58% | ||
With sales charge | -4.54% | 4.34% | 9.73% | ||
C Class | ACDHX | 0.50% | 4.79% | 9.76% | 10/31/11 |
R Class | ACDWX | 1.01% | 5.32% | 10.31% | 10/31/11 |
Effective February 15, 2019, the fund's secondary benchmark changed from the Russell 1000 Growth Index to the MSCI World Index. The fund's investment advisor believes that the MSCI World Index aligns better with the fund's strategy.
Sales charges include initial sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSCs), as applicable. A Class shares have a 5.75% maximum initial sales charge and may be subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. C Class shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase are subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. The SEC requires that mutual funds provide performance information net of maximum sales charges in all cases where charges could be applied.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
3
Growth of $10,000 Over Life of Class |
$10,000 investment made October 31, 2011 |
Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure. |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $22,049 | |
HFRX Equity Hedge Index — $11,927 | |
MSCI World Index — $20,913 | |
Russell 1000 Growth Index — $30,558 | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | ||||
Investor Class | I Class | A Class | C Class | R Class |
2.39% | 2.19% | 2.64% | 3.39% | 2.89% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
4
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Yulin Long and Tsuyoshi Ozaki
Performance Summary
AC Alternatives Disciplined Long Short returned 1.49%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, while the HFRX Equity Hedge Index, the fund’s benchmark, returned -4.24%. By comparison, the MSCI World Index, a measure of global equity market performance, returned 6.33%.
The fund seeks to participate in strong markets, with the expectation that it will deliver somewhat lower-than-market returns during a sustained rally. It also seeks to protect in down markets, with the goal of outperforming during market declines. During the reporting period, stocks rose further to record highs, but also experienced periods of sharp volatility, particularly in late 2018 and May 2019. During times when the market rose sharply, most notably beginning in January 2019, the fund participated in the rally, but trailed large-cap growth stocks.
The fund’s largest exposure was to the information technology sector, which was the leading contributor to absolute performance. Positioning within the financials and health care sectors were also additive, whereas energy and real estate sectors detracted. From a country perspective, companies based within the U.S. contributed most, while those based in Germany and Australia provided a headwind to results.
Information Technology, Financials and Health Care Contributed
The information technology sector made the leading contribution to performance during the year. Four of the top 10 individual contributing positions were technology stocks. These names include software companies Microsoft, 2U and Oracle, as well as IT services company USA Technologies, which we have since exited. The long position in Microsoft bolstered results as the stock price rose over the latter half of the period on the back of solid growth across multiple lines of its business. The company scores well for growth, valuation and quality factors. A short position in 2U was also beneficial as the online education company’s stock price fell on reduced enrollment figures. The company scores poorly for sentiment and valuation. Long positions in Cadence Design Systems, Intuit and Visa were other sources of strength within the sector. As a group, these stocks scored highly on multiple metrics.
Positioning within the financials sector was also a source of strength. Short positions in many banks added to performance. In general, many banks struggled during the 12 months due to a falling rate environment and flatter yield curve (difference between short- and long-term interest rate), which reduce revenues earned on lending activity. In particular, Equity Bancshares saw its price slide during the period amid a class action lawsuit. The stock carries low scores for quality and sentiment. Positioning within the capital markets and insurance industries was also beneficial. A long position in insurer Progressive was among the top individual contributors to performance.
Within the health care sector, both long and short positions in the pharmaceuticals industry were additive, particularly a long position in Eli Lilly & Co. and a short position in Aerie Pharmaceuticals. Positioning in biotechnology, health care providers and services, and health care equipment and supplies was also helpful. Other top contributors for the period included long positions in consumer discretionary companies Deckers Outdoor and AutoZone.
* All fund returns referenced in this commentary are for Investor Class shares. Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure; when Investor Class performance exceeds that of the fund’s benchmark, other share classes may not. See page 3 for returns for all share classes.
5
Notable Detractors Included Energy and Real Estate
On a sector basis, energy stocks detracted the most from absolute performance, led by a long position in energy equipment and services company Halliburton. The stock price slid during the period and factor scores deteriorated. We exited the position. A long position in oil, gas and consumable fuels company EOG Resources was also among the top individual detractors. The exploration and extraction company’s stock fell over the period, in part due to oil price volatility. A long position in Continental Resources was also among the top detractors within the sector. We have since exited the stock.
Positions within the real estate sector also weighed on results. A long position in real estate management and development company Newmark Group was among the leading individual detractors from performance. The developer’s stock price fell during the first half of the period. Its sentiment, quality and valuation scores fell, and we exited our position. A short position in Alexandria Real Estate Equities was also among the top individual detractors. Other notable detractors were from the hotels, restaurants and leisure industry within the consumer discretionary sector and included a short position in Belmond and a long position in Las Vegas Sands. We have since closed both of these positions.
Portfolio Positioning
Our disciplined, objective and systematic investment strategy is designed to take advantage of opportunities at the individual company level in both the long and short portions of the portfolio. We believe this approach is the most powerful way to capitalize on market inefficiencies that lead to the mispricing of individual stocks. Our broad sector exposures reflect the net effect of the underlying individual long and short positions.
At period-end, we held significant exposure to information technology, financials, consumer staples and consumer discretionary. In information technology, stocks in the software and services, semiconductors and semiconductor equipment, and computers and peripherals industry groups are attractive along multiple dimensions of our stock selection process. Our financials long positions are led by holdings in the capital markets industry. The consumer staples and consumer discretionary sectors long positions reflect allocations to the beverages and retailing industry groups, respectively. Conversely, we are finding fewer opportunities within the utilities and communication services sectors.
6
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Long Holdings | % of net assets |
Microsoft Corp. | 1.98% |
Apple, Inc. | 1.94% |
Amazon.com, Inc. | 1.91% |
Republic Services, Inc. | 1.86% |
Facebook, Inc., Class A | 1.73% |
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 1.51% |
Oracle Corp. (New York) | 1.47% |
PayPal Holdings, Inc. | 1.46% |
Anglo American plc | 1.44% |
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. | 1.42% |
Top Five Short Holdings | % of net assets |
Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc. | (1.46)% |
Amphenol Corp., Class A | (1.19)% |
TFS Financial Corp. | (1.06)% |
Marriott International, Inc., Class A | (0.89)% |
Insteel Industries, Inc. | (0.84)% |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Domestic Common Stocks | 89.7% |
Foreign Common Stocks* | 17.6% |
Rights | —** |
Domestic Common Stocks Sold Short | (53.4)% |
Foreign Common Stocks Sold Short* | (2.3)% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 0.1% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | 48.3%*** |
*Includes depositary shares, dual listed securities and foreign ordinary shares.
**Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets.
***Amount relates primarily to deposits for securities sold short at period end.
7
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
If you hold Investor Class shares of any American Century Investments fund, or I Class shares of the American Century Diversified Bond Fund, in an American Century Investments account (i.e., not a financial intermediary or retirement plan account), American Century Investments may charge you a $12.50 semiannual account maintenance fee if the value of those shares is less than $10,000. We will redeem shares automatically in one of your accounts to pay the $12.50 fee. In determining your total eligible investment amount, we will include your investments in all personal accounts (including American Century Investments Brokerage accounts) registered under your Social Security number. Personal accounts include individual accounts, joint accounts, UGMA/UTMA accounts, personal trusts, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and IRAs (including traditional, Roth, Rollover, SEP-, SARSEP- and SIMPLE-IRAs), and certain other retirement accounts. If you have only business, business retirement, employer-sponsored or American Century Investments Brokerage accounts, you are currently not subject to this fee. If you are subject to the Account Maintenance Fee, your account value could be reduced by the fee amount.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
8
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,052.40 | $8.65 | 1.70% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,054.00 | $7.64 | 1.50% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,051.30 | $9.92 | 1.95% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,047.20 | $13.71 | 2.70% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,050.30 | $11.18 | 2.20% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,016.36 | $8.50 | 1.70% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,017.36 | $7.50 | 1.50% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,015.13 | $9.74 | 1.95% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,011.41 | $13.47 | 2.70% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,013.89 | $10.99 | 2.20% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
9
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 107.3% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — 0.2% | ||||
Curtiss-Wright Corp. | 449 | $ | 57,081 | |
Mercury Systems, Inc.(1) | 914 | 64,300 | ||
121,381 | ||||
Air Freight and Logistics — 0.5% | ||||
CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc. | 3,064 | 258,448 | ||
Airlines — 0.2% | ||||
Air France-KLM(1) | 9,991 | 96,029 | ||
Auto Components — 0.5% | ||||
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. (The) | 17,773 | 271,927 | ||
Automobiles — 0.4% | ||||
Peugeot SA | 7,581 | 186,840 | ||
Banks — 7.0% | ||||
Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA | 28,285 | 158,175 | ||
Bank of Commerce Holdings | 11,408 | 121,952 | ||
Bank7 Corp.(1) | 5,222 | 96,555 | ||
C&F Financial Corp. | 1,208 | 65,969 | ||
Central Pacific Financial Corp. | 8,953 | 268,232 | ||
Central Valley Community Bancorp | 9,063 | 194,583 | ||
Comerica, Inc. | 4,298 | 312,207 | ||
East West Bancorp, Inc. | 2,663 | 124,549 | ||
Fifth Third Bancorp | 15,615 | 435,658 | ||
Financial Institutions, Inc. | 5,110 | 148,956 | ||
Independent Bank Corp. | 11,658 | 254,028 | ||
JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 2,190 | 244,842 | ||
Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. | 1,152 | 25,332 | ||
PCB Bancorp. | 8,909 | 151,809 | ||
Peoples Bancorp of North Carolina, Inc. | 1,455 | 43,723 | ||
Peoples Bancorp, Inc. | 2,801 | 90,360 | ||
United Community Banks, Inc. | 16,071 | 458,988 | ||
Wells Fargo & Co. | 3,246 | 153,601 | ||
West Bancorporation, Inc. | 11,934 | 253,239 | ||
3,602,758 | ||||
Beverages — 3.0% | ||||
Carlsberg A/S, B Shares | 2,158 | 286,152 | ||
Coca-Cola Co. (The)(2) | 12,824 | 652,998 | ||
Monster Beverage Corp.(1) | 1,482 | 94,596 | ||
PepsiCo, Inc. | 3,708 | 486,230 | ||
1,519,976 | ||||
Biotechnology — 4.2% | ||||
AbbVie, Inc. | 3,058 | 222,378 | ||
Amgen, Inc. | 1,413 | 260,388 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
Anika Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 1,018 | $ | 41,351 | |
BioSpecifics Technologies Corp.(1) | 1,339 | 79,952 | ||
Celgene Corp.(1) | 2,580 | 238,495 | ||
Chimerix, Inc.(1) | 68,568 | 296,214 | ||
Eagle Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 3,500 | 194,880 | ||
Esperion Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 1,020 | 47,451 | ||
Exact Sciences Corp.(1) | 681 | 80,385 | ||
Genomic Health, Inc.(1) | 1,984 | 115,409 | ||
Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 8,240 | 141,563 | ||
Incyte Corp.(1) | 2,928 | 248,763 | ||
Molecular Templates, Inc.(1) | 12,657 | 105,686 | ||
Veracyte, Inc.(1) | 3,136 | 89,407 | ||
2,162,322 | ||||
Building Products — 0.3% | ||||
CSW Industrials, Inc. | 478 | 32,576 | ||
Masco Corp. | 2,673 | 104,888 | ||
137,464 | ||||
Capital Markets — 3.7% | ||||
Ameriprise Financial, Inc. | 780 | 113,225 | ||
Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc., Class A | 3,779 | 103,998 | ||
Cowen, Inc., Class A(1) | 2,853 | 49,043 | ||
Evercore, Inc., Class A | 2,906 | 257,384 | ||
FactSet Research Systems, Inc. | 555 | 159,041 | ||
Ladenburg Thalmann Financial Services, Inc. | 15,659 | 53,710 | ||
LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. | 5,701 | 465,031 | ||
MSCI, Inc. | 666 | 159,034 | ||
Piper Jaffray Cos. | 4,170 | 309,706 | ||
SBI Holdings, Inc. | 4,200 | 104,226 | ||
Silvercrest Asset Management Group, Inc., Class A | 7,652 | 107,358 | ||
1,881,756 | ||||
Chemicals — 0.3% | ||||
AdvanSix, Inc.(1) | 4,334 | 105,880 | ||
Tredegar Corp. | 4,275 | 71,050 | ||
176,930 | ||||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 2.9% | ||||
Cimpress NV(1) | 1,126 | 102,342 | ||
Knoll, Inc. | 2,195 | 50,441 | ||
Republic Services, Inc.(2) | 10,979 | 951,221 | ||
Tetra Tech, Inc. | 2,459 | 193,154 | ||
Waste Management, Inc. | 1,648 | 190,130 | ||
1,487,288 | ||||
Communications Equipment — 1.3% | ||||
Cisco Systems, Inc. | 6,478 | 354,541 | ||
Lumentum Holdings, Inc.(1) | 734 | 39,203 | ||
Motorola Solutions, Inc. | 1,550 | 258,431 | ||
652,175 |
11
Shares | Value | |||
Construction and Engineering — 1.8% | ||||
ACS Actividades de Construccion y Servicios SA | 5,872 | $ | 234,461 | |
EMCOR Group, Inc.(2) | 7,247 | 638,461 | ||
MYR Group, Inc.(1) | 989 | 36,939 | ||
909,861 | ||||
Consumer Finance — 1.9% | ||||
Curo Group Holdings Corp.(1) | 12,355 | 136,523 | ||
Discover Financial Services | 4,068 | 315,636 | ||
Elevate Credit, Inc.(1) | 20,083 | 82,742 | ||
Enova International, Inc.(1) | 2,641 | 60,875 | ||
Green Dot Corp., Class A(1) | 1,840 | 89,976 | ||
Regional Management Corp.(1) | 2,303 | 60,730 | ||
Synchrony Financial | 7,111 | 246,538 | ||
993,020 | ||||
Containers and Packaging — 0.4% | ||||
Ardagh Group SA | 5,050 | 88,375 | ||
Berry Global Group, Inc.(1) | 926 | 48,698 | ||
Packaging Corp. of America | 664 | 63,293 | ||
200,366 | ||||
Distributors — 0.3% | ||||
Core-Mark Holding Co., Inc. | 4,236 | 168,254 | ||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.2% | ||||
Telefonica SA | 10,481 | 86,067 | ||
Electric Utilities — 2.1% | ||||
CLP Holdings Ltd. | 9,500 | 104,670 | ||
Contact Energy Ltd. | 97,738 | 525,560 | ||
Iberdrola SA | 41,788 | 416,830 | ||
Spark Energy, Inc., Class A | 2,505 | 28,031 | ||
1,075,091 | ||||
Electrical Equipment — 0.6% | ||||
Atkore International Group, Inc.(1) | 1,574 | 40,719 | ||
AZZ, Inc. | 3,301 | 151,912 | ||
Rockwell Automation, Inc. | 754 | 123,528 | ||
316,159 | ||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 2.3% | ||||
CDW Corp. | 3,036 | 336,996 | ||
FLIR Systems, Inc. | 3,268 | 176,799 | ||
Hitachi Ltd. | 2,500 | 91,880 | ||
National Instruments Corp. | 4,756 | 199,704 | ||
Zebra Technologies Corp., Class A(1) | 1,675 | 350,896 | ||
1,156,275 | ||||
Energy Equipment and Services — 0.9% | ||||
Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc.(1) | 18,413 | 158,904 | ||
Matrix Service Co.(1) | 1,776 | 35,982 | ||
SBM Offshore NV | 13,135 | 254,261 | ||
449,147 |
12
Shares | Value | |||
Entertainment — 0.5% | ||||
Electronic Arts, Inc.(1) | 1,950 | $ | 197,457 | |
Netflix, Inc.(1) | 166 | 60,975 | ||
258,432 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 3.7% | ||||
American Homes 4 Rent, Class A | 4,710 | 114,500 | ||
CareTrust REIT, Inc. | 6,950 | 165,271 | ||
GEO Group, Inc. (The) | 25,152 | 528,444 | ||
Lexington Realty Trust | 2,950 | 27,760 | ||
Link REIT | 29,000 | 356,699 | ||
PS Business Parks, Inc. | 2,693 | 453,851 | ||
Regency Centers Corp. | 1,568 | 104,648 | ||
Saul Centers, Inc. | 2,917 | 163,731 | ||
1,914,904 | ||||
Food and Staples Retailing — 0.9% | ||||
Axfood AB | 20,500 | 405,653 | ||
Performance Food Group Co.(1) | 794 | 31,784 | ||
437,437 | ||||
Food Products — 1.3% | ||||
General Mills, Inc. | 2,921 | 153,411 | ||
Hershey Co. (The) | 3,726 | 499,396 | ||
652,807 | ||||
Gas Utilities — 0.7% | ||||
Italgas SpA | 52,177 | 350,306 | ||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 2.3% | ||||
Accuray, Inc.(1) | 20,052 | 77,601 | ||
Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. | 2,362 | 247,113 | ||
Hologic, Inc.(1) | 3,815 | 183,196 | ||
Integer Holdings Corp.(1) | 3,223 | 270,474 | ||
Masimo Corp.(1) | 826 | 122,925 | ||
NuVasive, Inc.(1) | 3,747 | 219,349 | ||
Orthofix Medical, Inc.(1) | 610 | 32,257 | ||
Surmodics, Inc.(1) | 797 | 34,407 | ||
1,187,322 | ||||
Health Care Providers and Services — 1.0% | ||||
Amedisys, Inc.(1) | 673 | 81,709 | ||
CorVel Corp.(1) | 1,683 | 146,438 | ||
Ensign Group, Inc. (The) | 1,951 | 111,051 | ||
UnitedHealth Group, Inc. | 646 | 157,630 | ||
496,828 | ||||
Health Care Technology — 0.7% | ||||
Computer Programs & Systems, Inc. | 2,515 | 69,892 | ||
HealthStream, Inc.(1) | 4,175 | 107,966 | ||
Veeva Systems, Inc., Class A(1) | 1,129 | 183,022 | ||
360,880 | ||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 1.9% | ||||
Bloomin' Brands, Inc. | 1,753 | 33,149 |
13
Shares | Value | |||
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.(1) | 564 | $ | 413,344 | |
Darden Restaurants, Inc. | 1,499 | 182,473 | ||
Extended Stay America, Inc. | 5,247 | 88,622 | ||
Nathan's Famous, Inc. | 969 | 75,698 | ||
Sands China Ltd. | 31,200 | 149,561 | ||
Texas Roadhouse, Inc. | 988 | 53,026 | ||
995,873 | ||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.1% | ||||
NRG Energy, Inc. | 1,854 | 65,113 | ||
Insurance — 4.1% | ||||
Donegal Group, Inc., Class A | 8,780 | 134,071 | ||
James River Group Holdings Ltd. | 8,114 | 380,546 | ||
Mercury General Corp. | 5,360 | 335,000 | ||
Progressive Corp. (The)(2) | 8,432 | 673,970 | ||
Unipol Gruppo SpA | 119,078 | 578,724 | ||
2,102,311 | ||||
Interactive Media and Services — 2.4% | ||||
Alphabet, Inc., Class A(1) | 321 | 347,579 | ||
Facebook, Inc., Class A(1)(2) | 4,595 | 886,835 | ||
1,234,414 | ||||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 2.6% | ||||
Amazon.com, Inc.(1)(2) | 515 | 975,219 | ||
eBay, Inc. | 6,403 | 252,919 | ||
Rakuten, Inc. | 10,800 | 128,797 | ||
1,356,935 | ||||
IT Services — 6.6% | ||||
Akamai Technologies, Inc.(1) | 1,248 | 100,015 | ||
EVERTEC, Inc. | 2,867 | 93,751 | ||
Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. | 1,538 | 188,682 | ||
Global Payments, Inc. | 763 | 122,179 | ||
Mastercard, Inc., Class A(2) | 2,923 | 773,221 | ||
Okta, Inc.(1) | 3,775 | 466,250 | ||
PayPal Holdings, Inc.(1)(2) | 6,529 | 747,309 | ||
TTEC Holdings, Inc. | 1,020 | 47,522 | ||
Visa, Inc., Class A(2) | 3,976 | 690,035 | ||
Wirecard AG | 837 | 140,835 | ||
3,369,799 | ||||
Leisure Products — 0.6% | ||||
MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc.(1) | 1,451 | 28,425 | ||
Vista Outdoor, Inc.(1) | 31,644 | 280,999 | ||
309,424 | ||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 1.7% | ||||
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Class A(1) | 93 | 29,071 | ||
Lonza Group AG(1) | 377 | 127,228 | ||
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.(2) | 2,482 | 728,914 | ||
885,213 |
14
Shares | Value | |||
Machinery — 0.8% | ||||
Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. | 2,985 | $ | 138,355 | |
Gardner Denver Holdings, Inc.(1) | 4,701 | 162,655 | ||
Graham Corp. | 2,703 | 54,628 | ||
L.B. Foster Co., Class A(1) | 1,660 | 45,384 | ||
Tennant Co. | 496 | 30,355 | ||
431,377 | ||||
Metals and Mining — 4.5% | ||||
Anglo American plc | 25,726 | 735,869 | ||
BHP Group Ltd. | 23,149 | 670,596 | ||
BHP Group plc | 11,116 | 283,707 | ||
Compass Minerals International, Inc. | 1,492 | 81,985 | ||
Evraz plc | 3,697 | 31,344 | ||
Fortescue Metals Group Ltd. | 29,934 | 190,542 | ||
Iluka Resources Ltd. | 34,137 | 258,720 | ||
Royal Gold, Inc. | 497 | 50,937 | ||
2,303,700 | ||||
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 0.3% | ||||
Exantas Capital Corp. | 13,391 | 151,452 | ||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 3.1% | ||||
Aker BP ASA | 2,333 | 67,268 | ||
Arch Coal, Inc., Class A | 1,026 | 96,659 | ||
Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. | 4,056 | 93,126 | ||
CVR Energy, Inc. | 7,056 | 352,729 | ||
EOG Resources, Inc. | 4,098 | 381,770 | ||
Gaztransport Et Technigaz SA | 1,280 | 128,315 | ||
Hallador Energy Co. | 14,970 | 84,281 | ||
Lundin Petroleum AB | 4,062 | 126,414 | ||
Par Pacific Holdings, Inc.(1) | 7,855 | 161,185 | ||
Phillips 66 | 984 | 92,043 | ||
1,583,790 | ||||
Paper and Forest Products — 0.4% | ||||
Domtar Corp. | 3,680 | 163,870 | ||
P.H. Glatfelter Co. | 3,950 | 66,676 | ||
230,546 | ||||
Personal Products — 0.5% | ||||
elf Beauty, Inc.(1) | 5,390 | 75,999 | ||
Estee Lauder Cos., Inc. (The), Class A | 751 | 137,515 | ||
Nature's Sunshine Products, Inc.(1) | 3,123 | 29,013 | ||
242,527 | ||||
Pharmaceuticals — 2.1% | ||||
Daiichi Sankyo Co. Ltd. | 1,900 | 99,204 | ||
Eli Lilly & Co. | 2,029 | 224,793 | ||
Horizon Therapeutics plc(1) | 6,271 | 150,880 | ||
Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc(1) | 837 | 119,323 | ||
Pacira BioSciences, Inc.(1) | 1,275 | 55,450 | ||
Roche Holding AG | 950 | 267,298 |
15
Shares | Value | |||
Sawai Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | 2,100 | $ | 113,929 | |
Zoetis, Inc. | 242 | 27,465 | ||
1,058,342 | ||||
Professional Services — 1.0% | ||||
ASGN, Inc.(1) | 749 | 45,389 | ||
Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc. | 1,468 | 43,996 | ||
Kforce, Inc. | 3,233 | 113,446 | ||
Korn Ferry | 2,246 | 89,997 | ||
Persol Holdings Co. Ltd. | 4,900 | 115,447 | ||
Robert Half International, Inc. | 1,411 | 80,441 | ||
TrueBlue, Inc.(1) | 1,957 | 43,172 | ||
531,888 | ||||
Real Estate Management and Development — 1.7% | ||||
CK Asset Holdings Ltd. | 14,000 | 109,288 | ||
Hysan Development Co., Ltd. | 39,000 | 201,571 | ||
Jones Lang LaSalle, Inc. | 346 | 48,679 | ||
Kerry Properties Ltd. | 43,000 | 180,676 | ||
Sun Hung Kai Properties Ltd. | 16,500 | 280,210 | ||
Swire Properties Ltd. | 8,400 | 33,951 | ||
Wharf Holdings Ltd. (The) | 11,000 | 29,086 | ||
883,461 | ||||
Road and Rail — 0.5% | ||||
CSX Corp. | 3,220 | 249,131 | ||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 2.6% | ||||
Analog Devices, Inc. | 515 | 58,128 | ||
Cirrus Logic, Inc.(1) | 2,305 | 100,729 | ||
Inphi Corp.(1) | 3,475 | 174,097 | ||
Intel Corp. | 3,272 | 156,631 | ||
Lattice Semiconductor Corp.(1) | 5,927 | 86,475 | ||
NVIDIA Corp. | 1,370 | 224,995 | ||
ON Semiconductor Corp.(1) | 8,250 | 166,732 | ||
Qorvo, Inc.(1) | 4,424 | 294,683 | ||
QUALCOMM, Inc. | 431 | 32,786 | ||
Skyworks Solutions, Inc. | 675 | 52,157 | ||
1,347,413 | ||||
Software — 11.8% | ||||
Adobe, Inc.(1) | 619 | 182,388 | ||
Agilysys, Inc.(1) | 2,082 | 44,701 | ||
ANSYS, Inc.(1) | 1,403 | 287,362 | ||
Box, Inc., Class A(1) | 7,678 | 135,210 | ||
Cadence Design Systems, Inc.(1) | 5,914 | 418,770 | ||
Cornerstone OnDemand, Inc.(1) | 2,327 | 134,803 | ||
Fortinet, Inc.(1) | 469 | 36,033 | ||
Intuit, Inc. | 2,394 | 625,624 | ||
LogMeIn, Inc. | 857 | 63,144 | ||
Microsoft Corp.(2) | 7,564 | 1,013,273 | ||
Model N, Inc.(1) | 3,385 | 66,008 |
16
Shares | Value | |||
Oracle Corp. (New York)(2) | 13,176 | $ | 750,637 | |
Paycom Software, Inc.(1)(2) | 3,187 | 722,557 | ||
Paylocity Holding Corp.(1) | 816 | 76,557 | ||
Progress Software Corp. | 4,920 | 214,610 | ||
Proofpoint, Inc.(1) | 936 | 112,554 | ||
ServiceNow, Inc.(1) | 921 | 252,879 | ||
Synopsys, Inc.(1) | 365 | 46,972 | ||
Temenos AG(1) | 1,284 | 229,917 | ||
Teradata Corp.(1) | 6,859 | 245,895 | ||
Verint Systems, Inc.(1) | 3,981 | 214,098 | ||
VMware, Inc., Class A | 908 | 151,827 | ||
6,025,819 | ||||
Specialty Retail — 1.7% | ||||
AutoZone, Inc.(1)(2) | 578 | 635,494 | ||
Murphy USA, Inc.(1) | 701 | 58,905 | ||
O'Reilly Automotive, Inc.(1) | 335 | 123,722 | ||
Ulta Beauty, Inc.(1) | 122 | 42,321 | ||
860,442 | ||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals — 2.4% | ||||
Apple, Inc.(2) | 5,016 | 992,767 | ||
Avid Technology, Inc.(1) | 23,629 | 215,496 | ||
1,208,263 | ||||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 2.9% | ||||
adidas AG | 418 | 129,047 | ||
Columbia Sportswear Co. | 2,042 | 204,527 | ||
Deckers Outdoor Corp.(1)(2) | 3,896 | 685,579 | ||
NIKE, Inc., Class B | 999 | 83,866 | ||
Tapestry, Inc. | 7,385 | 234,326 | ||
Under Armour, Inc., Class C(1) | 5,561 | 123,454 | ||
1,460,799 | ||||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — 3.2% | ||||
Essent Group Ltd.(1) | 8,739 | 410,646 | ||
Flagstar Bancorp, Inc. | 7,982 | 264,523 | ||
FS Bancorp, Inc. | 2,579 | 133,773 | ||
NMI Holdings, Inc., Class A(1) | 4,123 | 117,052 | ||
PennyMac Financial Services, Inc. | 1,294 | 28,701 | ||
Radian Group, Inc. | 5,178 | 118,317 | ||
Riverview Bancorp, Inc. | 23,816 | 203,389 | ||
Sterling Bancorp, Inc. | 18,778 | 187,217 | ||
Walker & Dunlop, Inc. | 3,073 | 163,514 | ||
1,627,132 | ||||
Trading Companies and Distributors — 1.6% | ||||
Foundation Building Materials, Inc.(1) | 18,769 | 333,713 | ||
HD Supply Holdings, Inc.(1) | 10,303 | 415,005 | ||
Lawson Products, Inc.(1) | 1,811 | 66,518 | ||
815,236 |
17
Shares | Value | |||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.1% | ||||
Spok Holdings, Inc. | 2,333 | $ | 35,088 | |
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $47,568,201) | 54,933,938 | |||
RIGHTS† | ||||
Construction and Engineering† | ||||
ACS Actividades de Construccion y Servicios SA(1) (Cost $9,682) | 5,872 | 9,214 | ||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 0.1% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $28,526), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $28,013) | 28,008 | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 5,988 | 5,988 | ||
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $33,996) | 33,996 | |||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES BEFORE SECURITIES SOLD SHORT — 107.4% (Cost $47,611,879) | 54,977,148 | |||
COMMON STOCKS SOLD SHORT — (55.7)% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — (0.6)% | ||||
Arconic, Inc. | (4,465) | (115,287 | ) | |
BWX Technologies, Inc. | (3,593) | (187,195 | ) | |
(302,482 | ) | |||
Air Freight and Logistics — (0.2)% | ||||
Yamato Holdings Co. Ltd. | (6,000) | (122,229 | ) | |
Auto Components — (0.3)% | ||||
Dorman Products, Inc. | (1,407) | (122,606 | ) | |
LCI Industries | (611) | (54,990 | ) | |
(177,596 | ) | |||
Banks — (6.5)% | ||||
Allegiance Bancshares, Inc. | (7,718) | (257,318 | ) | |
Amalgamated Bank, Class A | (2,254) | (39,332 | ) | |
Bank of Princeton (The) | (1,121) | (33,630 | ) | |
Bankwell Financial Group, Inc. | (1,903) | (54,616 | ) | |
BOK Financial Corp. | (1,237) | (93,369 | ) | |
Equity Bancshares, Inc., Class A | (3,214) | (85,685 | ) | |
HarborOne Bancorp, Inc. | (14,091) | (263,924 | ) | |
Howard Bancorp, Inc. | (18,133) | (275,078 | ) | |
Independent Bank Corp. | (4,189) | (318,992 | ) | |
Investar Holding Corp. | (7,135) | (170,170 | ) | |
MVB Financial Corp. | (2,520) | (42,739 | ) | |
Old Line Bancshares, Inc. | (10,004) | (266,207 | ) | |
Origin Bancorp, Inc. | (3,627) | (119,691 | ) | |
Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc. | (12,996) | (747,010 | ) | |
Reliant Bancorp, Inc. | (4,470) | (105,626 | ) | |
Seacoast Banking Corp. of Florida | (6,199) | (157,703 | ) | |
Select Bancorp, Inc. | (7,797) | (89,198 | ) | |
Triumph Bancorp, Inc. | (4,140) | (120,267 | ) | |
18
Shares | Value | |||
United Bankshares, Inc. | (2,899) | $ | (107,524 | ) |
(3,348,079 | ) | |||
Beverages — (0.8)% | ||||
Brown-Forman Corp., Class B | (7,451) | (413,009 | ) | |
Biotechnology — (4.2)% | ||||
Aeglea BioTherapeutics, Inc. | (5,800) | (39,730 | ) | |
Aimmune Therapeutics, Inc. | (3,565) | (74,223 | ) | |
Albireo Pharma, Inc. | (2,149) | (69,284 | ) | |
Alder Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. | (5,757) | (67,760 | ) | |
Atara Biotherapeutics, Inc. | (3,233) | (65,016 | ) | |
Audentes Therapeutics, Inc. | (2,724) | (103,131 | ) | |
Avrobio, Inc. | (2,530) | (41,138 | ) | |
Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (20,467) | (78,593 | ) | |
Celcuity, Inc. | (1,480) | (37,000 | ) | |
Clovis Oncology, Inc. | (2,693) | (40,045 | ) | |
Deciphera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (2,857) | (64,425 | ) | |
Fate Therapeutics, Inc. | (1,328) | (26,958 | ) | |
G1 Therapeutics, Inc. | (5,062) | (155,201 | ) | |
Global Blood Therapeutics, Inc. | (1,529) | (80,425 | ) | |
GlycoMimetics, Inc. | (2,612) | (31,135 | ) | |
Immunomedics, Inc. | (2,058) | (28,545 | ) | |
Insmed, Inc. | (1,004) | (25,702 | ) | |
Kindred Biosciences, Inc. | (13,204) | (109,989 | ) | |
Madrigal Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (418) | (43,811 | ) | |
Magenta Therapeutics, Inc. | (9,287) | (136,983 | ) | |
Minerva Neurosciences, Inc. | (10,438) | (58,766 | ) | |
Recro Pharma, Inc. | (3,914) | (39,805 | ) | |
Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (3,732) | (82,104 | ) | |
Sage Therapeutics, Inc. | (621) | (113,699 | ) | |
Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc. | (1,028) | (156,205 | ) | |
Spectrum Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (8,245) | (70,989 | ) | |
Synlogic, Inc. | (8,653) | (78,742 | ) | |
Syros Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (4,466) | (41,355 | ) | |
Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical, Inc. | (547) | (34,735 | ) | |
Y-mAbs Therapeutics, Inc. | (6,110) | (139,736 | ) | |
(2,135,230 | ) | |||
Building Products — (0.8)% | ||||
Insteel Industries, Inc. | (20,643) | (429,787 | ) | |
Capital Markets — (0.6)% | ||||
Ares Management Corp., Class A | (2,330) | (60,976 | ) | |
Hamilton Lane, Inc., Class A | (466) | (26,590 | ) | |
Virtus Investment Partners, Inc. | (1,406) | (151,005 | ) | |
WisdomTree Investments, Inc. | (7,931) | (48,934 | ) | |
(287,505 | ) | |||
Chemicals — (1.0)% | ||||
International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc. | (1,552) | (225,180 | ) | |
Livent Corp. | (32,162) | (222,561 | ) |
19
Shares | Value | |||
Sensient Technologies Corp. | (673) | $ | (49,452 | ) |
(497,193 | ) | |||
Commercial Services and Supplies — (0.7)% | ||||
Healthcare Services Group, Inc. | (12,054) | (365,477 | ) | |
Construction and Engineering — (1.5)% | ||||
Argan, Inc. | (6,983) | (283,231 | ) | |
Granite Construction, Inc. | (3,328) | (160,343 | ) | |
JGC Corp. | (16,200) | (223,150 | ) | |
Taisei Corp. | (2,500) | (90,994 | ) | |
(757,718 | ) | |||
Containers and Packaging — (1.7)% | ||||
AptarGroup, Inc. | (895) | (111,284 | ) | |
Avery Dennison Corp. | (3,254) | (376,423 | ) | |
Graphic Packaging Holding Co. | (27,831) | (389,077 | ) | |
(876,784 | ) | |||
Distributors — (0.5)% | ||||
LKQ Corp. | (3,475) | (92,470 | ) | |
Pool Corp. | (841) | (160,631 | ) | |
(253,101 | ) | |||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — (0.2)% | ||||
Cellnex Telecom SA | (2,097) | (77,628 | ) | |
Electric Utilities — (0.2)% | ||||
Xcel Energy, Inc. | (1,373) | (81,680 | ) | |
Electrical Equipment — (0.6)% | ||||
EnerSys | (1,680) | (115,080 | ) | |
Sunrun, Inc. | (2,358) | (44,236 | ) | |
TPI Composites, Inc. | (5,165) | (127,679 | ) | |
(286,995 | ) | |||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — (2.7)% | ||||
Amphenol Corp., Class A | (6,338) | (608,068 | ) | |
Arlo Technologies, Inc. | (11,212) | (44,960 | ) | |
Arrow Electronics, Inc. | (3,657) | (260,634 | ) | |
Cognex Corp. | (584) | (28,020 | ) | |
FARO Technologies, Inc. | (1,473) | (77,450 | ) | |
IPG Photonics Corp. | (854) | (131,730 | ) | |
Iteris, Inc. | (37,997) | (196,445 | ) | |
Novanta, Inc. | (539) | (50,828 | ) | |
(1,398,135 | ) | |||
Energy Equipment and Services — (0.5)% | ||||
KLX Energy Services Holdings, Inc. | (1,457) | (29,767 | ) | |
McDermott International, Inc. | (16,621) | (160,559 | ) | |
Oil States International, Inc. | (1,500) | (27,450 | ) | |
Solaris Oilfield Infrastructure, Inc., Class A | (3,134) | (46,947 | ) | |
(264,723 | ) | |||
Entertainment — (0.1)% | ||||
Square Enix Holdings Co. Ltd. | (1,400) | (44,984 | ) | |
20
Shares | Value | |||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — (2.3)% | ||||
Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. | (2,884) | $ | (406,904 | ) |
Americold Realty Trust | (7,888) | (255,729 | ) | |
Equinix, Inc. | (466) | (234,999 | ) | |
Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc. | (4,927) | (192,054 | ) | |
ProLogis, Inc. | (1,373) | (109,977 | ) | |
(1,199,663 | ) | |||
Food Products — (0.9)% | ||||
J&J Snack Foods Corp. | (1,884) | (303,230 | ) | |
Yamazaki Baking Co. Ltd. | (9,000) | (136,223 | ) | |
(439,453 | ) | |||
Gas Utilities — (0.4)% | ||||
New Jersey Resources Corp. | (1,995) | (99,291 | ) | |
South Jersey Industries, Inc. | (3,563) | (120,180 | ) | |
(219,471 | ) | |||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — (2.0)% | ||||
AxoGen, Inc. | (4,464) | (88,387 | ) | |
Cantel Medical Corp. | (1,825) | (147,168 | ) | |
Insulet Corp. | (461) | (55,034 | ) | |
Neogen Corp. | (2,446) | (151,921 | ) | |
OrthoPediatrics Corp. | (2,449) | (95,511 | ) | |
Sientra, Inc. | (5,607) | (34,539 | ) | |
Teleflex, Inc. | (507) | (167,893 | ) | |
Wright Medical Group NV | (9,892) | (294,980 | ) | |
(1,035,433 | ) | |||
Health Care Providers and Services — (0.2)% | ||||
PetIQ, Inc. | (1,242) | (40,936 | ) | |
Ryman Healthcare Ltd. | (4,557) | (35,999 | ) | |
(76,935 | ) | |||
Health Care Technology — (0.5)% | ||||
Evolent Health, Inc., Class A | (8,616) | (68,497 | ) | |
Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | (811) | (49,187 | ) | |
Tabula Rasa HealthCare, Inc. | (2,960) | (147,793 | ) | |
(265,477 | ) | |||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — (2.8)% | ||||
Caesars Entertainment Corp. | (6,278) | (74,206 | ) | |
Churchill Downs, Inc. | (964) | (110,927 | ) | |
Hyatt Hotels Corp., Class A | (2,821) | (214,763 | ) | |
Marriott International, Inc., Class A | (3,244) | (455,101 | ) | |
Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corp. | (1,741) | (167,832 | ) | |
Merlin Entertainments plc | (29,652) | (169,126 | ) | |
Restaurant Brands International, Inc. | (703) | (48,887 | ) | |
Wynn Resorts Ltd. | (1,500) | (185,985 | ) | |
(1,426,827 | ) | |||
Household Durables — (1.1)% | ||||
Century Communities, Inc. | (3,322) | (88,299 | ) | |
Leggett & Platt, Inc. | (7,814) | (299,823 | ) |
21
Shares | Value | |||
Mohawk Industries, Inc. | (1,268) | $ | (186,992 | ) |
(575,114 | ) | |||
Insurance — (2.8)% | ||||
Ambac Financial Group, Inc. | (11,037) | (185,974 | ) | |
Aon plc | (2,029) | (391,556 | ) | |
Brown & Brown, Inc. | (9,172) | (307,262 | ) | |
Hiscox Ltd. | (5,372) | (115,741 | ) | |
White Mountains Insurance Group Ltd. | (292) | (298,266 | ) | |
WR Berkley Corp. | (2,059) | (135,750 | ) | |
(1,434,549 | ) | |||
IT Services — (1.3)% | ||||
Evo Payments, Inc., Class A | (7,158) | (225,692 | ) | |
Information Services Group, Inc. | (20,867) | (65,940 | ) | |
PRGX Global, Inc. | (30,896) | (207,621 | ) | |
Twilio, Inc., Class A | (1,344) | (183,254 | ) | |
(682,507 | ) | |||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — (0.3)% | ||||
Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. | (992) | (140,765 | ) | |
Machinery — (2.0)% | ||||
Astec Industries, Inc. | (8,543) | (278,160 | ) | |
Deere & Co. | (1,136) | (188,247 | ) | |
Donaldson Co., Inc. | (4,906) | (249,519 | ) | |
Lindsay Corp. | (863) | (70,947 | ) | |
Lydall, Inc. | (1,494) | (30,179 | ) | |
NN, Inc. | (5,986) | (58,423 | ) | |
Welbilt, Inc. | (10,058) | (167,969 | ) | |
(1,043,444 | ) | |||
Media — (0.9)% | ||||
New York Times Co. (The), Class A | (13,079) | (426,637 | ) | |
Reading International, Inc., Class A | (2,794) | (36,266 | ) | |
(462,903 | ) | |||
Metals and Mining — (0.2)% | ||||
Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc. | (8,946) | (95,454 | ) | |
Synalloy Corp. | (1,600) | (24,992 | ) | |
(120,446 | ) | |||
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — (0.5)% | ||||
Annaly Capital Management, Inc. | (19,662) | (179,514 | ) | |
Redwood Trust, Inc. | (5,655) | (93,477 | ) | |
(272,991 | ) | |||
Multi-Utilities — (0.5)% | ||||
NiSource, Inc. | (8,763) | (252,374 | ) | |
Multiline Retail — (0.4)% | ||||
Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd. | (9,900) | (80,189 | ) | |
Kohl's Corp. | (2,444) | (116,212 | ) | |
(196,401 | ) | |||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — (0.7)% | ||||
Diamondback Energy, Inc. | (708) | (77,151 | ) |
22
Shares | Value | |||
Matador Resources Co. | (3,572) | $ | (71,011 | ) |
Ship Finance International Ltd. | (7,186) | (89,897 | ) | |
Unit Corp. | (12,823) | (113,996 | ) | |
(352,055 | ) | |||
Pharmaceuticals — (1.4)% | ||||
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (2,939) | (86,848 | ) | |
Catalent, Inc. | (2,689) | (145,771 | ) | |
Cymabay Therapeutics, Inc. | (8,876) | (63,552 | ) | |
Menlo Therapeutics, Inc. | (6,382) | (38,228 | ) | |
MyoKardia, Inc. | (1,004) | (50,341 | ) | |
Reata Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Class A | (1,329) | (125,391 | ) | |
Tricida, Inc. | (2,207) | (87,088 | ) | |
Verrica Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (4,478) | (52,034 | ) | |
Zogenix, Inc. | (1,522) | (72,721 | ) | |
(721,974 | ) | |||
Professional Services — (1.0)% | ||||
Equifax, Inc. | (3,171) | (428,846 | ) | |
Willdan Group, Inc. | (2,005) | (74,686 | ) | |
(503,532 | ) | |||
Real Estate Management and Development — (0.8)% | ||||
Howard Hughes Corp. (The) | (2,929) | (362,727 | ) | |
Trinity Place Holdings, Inc. | (10,720) | (42,344 | ) | |
(405,071 | ) | |||
Road and Rail — (0.5)% | ||||
AMERCO | (676) | (255,900 | ) | |
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — (1.1)% | ||||
AXT, Inc. | (23,111) | (91,520 | ) | |
Entegris, Inc. | (3,428) | (127,933 | ) | |
First Solar, Inc. | (2,489) | (163,477 | ) | |
Veeco Instruments, Inc. | (13,984) | (170,884 | ) | |
(553,814 | ) | |||
Software — (1.3)% | ||||
2U, Inc. | (3,342) | (125,793 | ) | |
8x8, Inc. | (4,351) | (104,859 | ) | |
Envestnet, Inc. | (887) | (60,644 | ) | |
Instructure, Inc. | (1,450) | (61,625 | ) | |
LivePerson, Inc. | (9,427) | (264,333 | ) | |
OneSpan, Inc. | (2,491) | (35,298 | ) | |
(652,552 | ) | |||
Specialty Retail — (2.1)% | ||||
Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc., Class A | (2,533) | (106,133 | ) | |
Gap, Inc. (The) | (5,719) | (102,770 | ) | |
Monro, Inc. | (2,162) | (184,419 | ) | |
Party City Holdco, Inc. | (34,911) | (255,898 | ) | |
Tiffany & Co. | (891) | (83,433 | ) | |
Tile Shop Holdings, Inc. | (82,954) | (331,816 | ) | |
(1,064,469 | ) |
23
Shares | Value | |||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — (0.2)% | ||||
PVH Corp. | (544) | $ | (51,484 | ) |
Unifi, Inc. | (2,357) | (42,827 | ) | |
(94,311 | ) | |||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — (3.2)% | ||||
Capitol Federal Financial, Inc. | (3,625) | (49,916 | ) | |
Columbia Financial, Inc. | (12,928) | (195,213 | ) | |
Kearny Financial Corp. | (19,020) | (252,776 | ) | |
PCSB Financial Corp. | (8,592) | (173,988 | ) | |
Provident Bancorp, Inc. | (5,808) | (162,566 | ) | |
TFS Financial Corp. | (30,024) | (542,533 | ) | |
Western New England Bancorp, Inc. | (27,903) | (260,614 | ) | |
(1,637,606 | ) | |||
Trading Companies and Distributors — (0.6)% | ||||
Air Lease Corp. | (5,297) | (218,978 | ) | |
CAI International, Inc. | (3,663) | (90,916 | ) | |
(309,894 | ) | |||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS SOLD SHORT (Proceeds $27,851,412) | (28,516,266 | ) | ||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES(3) — 48.3% | 24,713,580 | |||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 51,174,462 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
† | Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets. |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
(2) | Security, or a portion thereof, has been pledged at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements on securities sold short. At the period end, the aggregate value of securities pledged was $10,564,697. |
(3) | Amount relates primarily to deposits for securities sold short at period end. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
24
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $47,611,879) | $ | 54,977,148 | |
Foreign currency holdings, at value (cost of $627) | 627 | ||
Deposits for securities sold short | 24,643,090 | ||
Receivable for capital shares sold | 169,594 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 79,376 | ||
79,869,835 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Securities sold short, at value (proceeds of $27,851,412) | 28,516,266 | ||
Disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 302 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 87,018 | ||
Accrued management fees | 57,726 | ||
Distribution and service fees payable | 1,942 | ||
Dividend expense payable on securities sold short | 32,119 | ||
28,695,373 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 51,174,462 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 46,430,114 | |
Distributable earnings | 4,744,348 | ||
$ | 51,174,462 |
Net Assets | Shares Outstanding | Net Asset Value Per Share | ||||
Investor Class, $0.01 Par Value | $33,165,470 | 1,919,167 | $17.28 | |||
I Class, $0.01 Par Value | $14,052,463 | 809,060 | $17.37 | |||
A Class, $0.01 Par Value | $1,464,973 | 86,176 | $17.00* | |||
C Class, $0.01 Par Value | $1,504,940 | 94,222 | $15.97 | |||
R Class, $0.01 Par Value | $986,616 | 59,124 | $16.69 |
*Maximum offering price $18.04 (net asset value divided by 0.9425).
See Notes to Financial Statements.
25
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $8,851) | $ | 881,231 | |
Interest | 291,051 | ||
1,172,282 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Dividend expense on securities sold short | 295,676 | ||
Management fees | 679,937 | ||
Distribution and service fees: | |||
A Class | 3,796 | ||
C Class | 15,674 | ||
R Class | 4,648 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 3,381 | ||
Other expenses | 723 | ||
1,003,835 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 168,447 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | 1,920,765 | ||
Securities sold short transactions | (2,200,997 | ) | |
Foreign currency translation transactions | (2,145 | ) | |
(282,377 | ) | ||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments | 136,487 | ||
Securities sold short | 905,634 | ||
Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | 240 | ||
1,042,361 | |||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 759,984 | ||
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | 928,431 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
26
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 168,447 | $ | (293,111 | ) | |
Net realized gain (loss) | (282,377 | ) | 2,372,201 | |||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 1,042,361 | 26,213 | ||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 928,431 | 2,105,303 | ||||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings: | ||||||
Investor Class | (2,086,696 | ) | (2,804,255 | ) | ||
I Class | (493,394 | ) | (130,005 | ) | ||
A Class | (92,518 | ) | (135,710 | ) | ||
C Class | (97,278 | ) | (152,548 | ) | ||
R Class | (56,435 | ) | (49,146 | ) | ||
Decrease in net assets from distributions | (2,826,321 | ) | (3,271,664 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions (Note 5) | 4,147,559 | 9,245,912 | ||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | 2,249,669 | 8,079,551 | ||||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 48,924,793 | 40,845,242 | ||||
End of period | $ | 51,174,462 | $ | 48,924,793 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
27
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. AC Alternatives Disciplined Long Short Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital growth.
The fund offers the Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class and R Class. The A Class may incur an initial sales charge. The A Class and C Class may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price. Equity securities initially expressed in local currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the mean of the appropriate currency exchange rate at the close of the NYSE as provided by an independent pricing service.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price
28
of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.
Securities Sold Short — The fund enters into short sales, which is selling securities it does not own, as part of its normal investment activities. Upon selling a security short, the fund will segregate cash, cash equivalents or other appropriate liquid securities in at least an amount equal to the current market value of the securities sold short until the fund replaces the borrowed security. Interest earned on segregated cash for securities sold short, if any, is reflected as interest income. The fund is required to pay any dividends or interest due on securities sold short. Such dividends and interest are recorded as an expense. The fund may pay fees or charges on the assets borrowed for securities sold short. These fees are calculated daily based upon the value of each security sold short and a rate that is dependent on the availability of such security. Liabilities for securities sold short are valued daily and changes in value are recorded as change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on securities sold short. The fund records realized gain (loss) on a security sold short when it is terminated by the fund and includes as a component of net realized gain (loss) on securities sold short transactions.
Foreign Currency Translations — All assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at prevailing exchange rates at period end. The fund may enter into spot foreign currency exchange contracts to facilitate transactions denominated in a foreign currency. Purchases and sales of investment securities, dividend and interest income, spot foreign currency exchange contracts, and expenses are translated at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Net realized and unrealized foreign currency exchange gains or losses related to investment securities are a component of net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments, respectively. Net realized and unrealized foreign currency exchange gains or losses related to securities sold short are a component of net realized gain (loss) on securities sold short transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on securities sold short, respectively.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Segregated Assets — In accordance with the 1940 Act, the fund segregates assets on its books and records to cover certain types of investment securities and other financial instruments. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities segregated to ensure the fund designates a sufficient amount of liquid assets, marked-to-market daily. The fund may also receive assets or be required to pledge assets at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there
29
are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Multiple Class — All shares of the fund represent an equal pro rata interest in the net assets of the class to which such shares belong, and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the fund are allocated to each class of shares based on their relative net assets.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid semiannually. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually.
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS), and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC.
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee) per class. The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except distribution and service fees, expenses on securities sold short, brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on each class's daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The difference in the fee among the classes is a result of their separate arrangements for non-Rule 12b-1 shareholder services. It is not the result of any difference in advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the fund’s assets, which do not vary by class. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The Investment Category Fee range, the Complex Fee range and the effective annual management fee for each class for the period ended June 30, 2019 are as follows:
Investment Category Fee Range | Complex Fee Range | Effective Annual Management Fee | |
Investor Class | 1.1180% to 1.3000% | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.44% |
I Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 1.24% | |
A Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.44% | |
C Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.44% | |
R Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.44% |
Distribution and Service Fees — The Board of Directors has adopted a separate Master Distribution and Individual Shareholder Services Plan for each of the A Class, C Class and R Class (collectively the plans), pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act. The plans provide that the A Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.25%. The plans provide that the C Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 1.00%, of which 0.25% is paid for individual shareholder services and 0.75% is paid for distribution services. The plans provide that the R Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.50%. The fees are computed and accrued daily based on each class’s daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The fees are used to pay financial intermediaries for distribution and individual shareholder services. Fees incurred under the plans during the period ended June 30, 2019 are detailed in the Statement of Operations.
30
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $1,386,135 and $1,077,069, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $(78,261) in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities and securities sold short, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $114,980,761 and $113,090,945, respectively.
5. Capital Share Transactions
Transactions in shares of the fund were as follows:
Year ended June 30, 2019 | Year ended June 30, 2018 | |||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||
Investor Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 576,438 | $ | 10,187,762 | 1,274,754 | $ | 23,619,522 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 121,131 | 2,036,209 | 148,786 | 2,664,762 | ||||||
Redeemed | (968,570 | ) | (17,294,663 | ) | (1,165,589 | ) | (21,437,057 | ) | ||
(271,001 | ) | (5,070,692 | ) | 257,951 | 4,847,227 | |||||
I Class/Shares Authorized | 25,000,000 | 25,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 651,397 | 11,306,451 | 275,796 | 5,086,168 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 29,229 | 493,394 | 7,247 | 130,005 | ||||||
Redeemed | (149,632 | ) | (2,578,090 | ) | (26,606 | ) | (487,271 | ) | ||
530,994 | 9,221,755 | 256,437 | 4,728,902 | |||||||
A Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 9,950 | 178,246 | 26,419 | 483,482 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 5,471 | 90,602 | 7,335 | 129,830 | ||||||
Redeemed | (17,732 | ) | (311,966 | ) | (51,825 | ) | (945,562 | ) | ||
(2,311 | ) | (43,118 | ) | (18,071 | ) | (332,250 | ) | |||
C Class/Shares Authorized | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 5,841 | 95,016 | 13,593 | 239,127 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 6,228 | 97,278 | 9,032 | 152,548 | ||||||
Redeemed | (24,739 | ) | (419,519 | ) | (40,415 | ) | (706,839 | ) | ||
(12,670 | ) | (227,225 | ) | (17,790 | ) | (315,164 | ) | |||
R Class/Shares Authorized | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 21,465 | 369,272 | 27,688 | 502,597 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 3,467 | 56,435 | 2,815 | 49,146 | ||||||
Redeemed | (9,316 | ) | (158,868 | ) | (13,075 | ) | (234,546 | ) | ||
15,616 | 266,839 | 17,428 | 317,197 | |||||||
Net increase (decrease) | 260,628 | $ | 4,147,559 | 495,955 | $ | 9,245,912 |
31
6. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Airlines | — | $ | 96,029 | — | ||||
Automobiles | — | 186,840 | — | |||||
Banks | $ | 3,444,583 | 158,175 | — | ||||
Beverages | 1,233,824 | 286,152 | — | |||||
Capital Markets | 1,777,530 | 104,226 | — | |||||
Construction and Engineering | 675,400 | 234,461 | — | |||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services | — | 86,067 | — | |||||
Electric Utilities | 28,031 | 1,047,060 | — | |||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components | 1,064,395 | 91,880 | — | |||||
Energy Equipment and Services | 194,886 | 254,261 | — | |||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) | 1,558,205 | 356,699 | — | |||||
Food and Staples Retailing | 31,784 | 405,653 | — | |||||
Gas Utilities | — | 350,306 | — | |||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure | 846,312 | 149,561 | — | |||||
Insurance | 1,523,587 | 578,724 | — | |||||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail | 1,228,138 | 128,797 | — | |||||
IT Services | 3,228,964 | 140,835 | — | |||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services | 757,985 | 127,228 | — | |||||
Metals and Mining | 132,922 | 2,170,778 | — | |||||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels | 1,261,793 | 321,997 | — | |||||
Pharmaceuticals | 577,911 | 480,431 | — | |||||
Professional Services | 416,441 | 115,447 | — | |||||
Real Estate Management and Development | 48,679 | 834,782 | — | |||||
Software | 5,795,902 | 229,917 | — | |||||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods | 1,331,752 | 129,047 | — | |||||
Other Industries | 18,709,561 | — | — | |||||
Rights | — | 9,214 | — | |||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 5,988 | 28,008 | — | |||||
$ | 45,874,573 | $ | 9,102,575 | — |
32
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||
Securities Sold Short | ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Air Freight and Logistics | — | $ | 122,229 | — | ||||
Construction and Engineering | $ | 443,574 | 314,144 | — | ||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services | — | 77,628 | — | |||||
Entertainment | — | 44,984 | — | |||||
Food Products | 303,230 | 136,223 | — | |||||
Health Care Providers and Services | 40,936 | 35,999 | — | |||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure | 1,257,701 | 169,126 | — | |||||
Insurance | 1,318,808 | 115,741 | — | |||||
Multiline Retail | 116,212 | 80,189 | — | |||||
Other Industries | 23,939,542 | — | — | |||||
$ | 27,420,003 | $ | 1,096,263 | — |
7. Risk Factors
There are certain risks involved in investing in foreign securities. These risks include those resulting from political events (such as civil unrest, national elections and imposition of exchange controls), social and economic events (such as labor strikes and rising inflation), and natural disasters. Securities of foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile. Investing in emerging markets or a significant portion of assets in one country or region may accentuate these risks.
The fund is subject to short sales risk. If the market price of a security increases after the fund borrows the security, the fund may suffer a loss when it replaces the borrowed security at the higher price. Any loss will be increased by the amount of compensation, interest or dividends, and transaction costs the fund must pay to the lender of the borrowed security.
The fund's investment strategy utilizes leverage, which can increase market exposure and subject the fund to greater risk and higher volatility.
If the fund is overweighted in a stock or sector, any negative development related to that stock or sector will have a greater impact on the fund than other funds that are not overweighted in that stock or sector.
The fund’s investment process may result in high portfolio turnover, which could mean high transaction costs, affecting both performance and capital gains tax liabilities to investors.
8. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | — | — | ||||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 2,826,321 | $ | 3,271,664 |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
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As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 47,701,885 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 8,305,749 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (1,030,486 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | 7,275,263 | ||
Gross tax appreciation on securities sold short | 1,501,954 | ||
Gross tax depreciation on securities sold short | (2,186,049 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) on translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | 240 | ||
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) | $ | 6,591,408 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $ | 65,783 | |
Post-October capital loss deferral | $ | (1,912,843 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
Loss deferrals represent certain qualified losses that the fund has elected to treat as having been incurred in the following fiscal year for federal income tax purposes.
34
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | ||||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | ||||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (excluding expenses on securities sold short) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | ||||||||||||||||
2019 | $18.13 | 0.06 | 0.18 | 0.24 | — | (1.09) | (1.09) | $17.28 | 1.49% | 2.06% | 1.45% | 0.36% | 220% | $33,165 | ||
2018 | $18.54 | (0.11) | 1.02 | 0.91 | — | (1.32) | (1.32) | $18.13 | 5.06% | 2.39% | 1.44% | (0.58)% | 243% | $39,702 | ||
2017 | $16.17 | —(3) | 2.38 | 2.38 | (0.01) | — | (0.01) | $18.54 | 14.65% | 2.05% | 1.45% | 0.00%(4) | 127% | $35,816 | ||
2016 | $16.67 | 0.02 | (0.25) | (0.23) | —(3) | (0.27) | (0.27) | $16.17 | (1.40)% | 1.91% | 1.47% | 0.14% | 121% | $34,885 | ||
2015 | $16.02 | 0.04 | 1.54 | 1.58 | (0.01) | (0.92) | (0.93) | $16.67 | 10.22% | 1.80% | 1.45% | 0.22% | 115% | $47,976 | ||
I Class | ||||||||||||||||
2019 | $18.18 | 0.12 | 0.16 | 0.28 | — | (1.09) | (1.09) | $17.37 | 1.71% | 1.86% | 1.25% | 0.56% | 220% | $14,052 | ||
2018 | $18.55 | (0.06) | 1.01 | 0.95 | — | (1.32) | (1.32) | $18.18 | 5.22% | 2.19% | 1.24% | (0.38)% | 243% | $5,055 | ||
2017 | $16.18 | 0.04 | 2.37 | 2.41 | (0.04) | — | (0.04) | $18.55 | 14.93% | 1.85% | 1.25% | 0.20% | 127% | $401 | ||
2016 | $16.69 | 0.04 | (0.24) | (0.20) | (0.04) | (0.27) | (0.31) | $16.18 | (1.26)% | 1.71% | 1.27% | 0.34% | 121% | $322 | ||
2015 | $16.03 | 0.06 | 1.57 | 1.63 | (0.05) | (0.92) | (0.97) | $16.69 | 10.49% | 1.60% | 1.25% | 0.42% | 115% | $1,027 | ||
A Class | ||||||||||||||||
2019 | $17.89 | 0.02 | 0.18 | 0.20 | — | (1.09) | (1.09) | $17.00 | 1.28% | 2.31% | 1.70% | 0.11% | 220% | $1,465 | ||
2018 | $18.36 | (0.15) | 1.00 | 0.85 | — | (1.32) | (1.32) | $17.89 | 4.77% | 2.64% | 1.69% | (0.83)% | 243% | $1,583 | ||
2017 | $16.04 | (0.05) | 2.37 | 2.32 | — | — | — | $18.36 | 14.40% | 2.30% | 1.70% | (0.25)% | 127% | $1,956 | ||
2016 | $16.59 | (0.02) | (0.26) | (0.28) | — | (0.27) | (0.27) | $16.04 | (1.72)% | 2.16% | 1.72% | (0.11)% | 121% | $5,333 | ||
2015 | $15.97 | (0.01) | 1.55 | 1.54 | — | (0.92) | (0.92) | $16.59 | 9.97% | 2.05% | 1.70% | (0.03)% | 115% | $6,083 |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | ||||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | ||||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (excluding expenses on securities sold short) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
C Class | ||||||||||||||||
2019 | $17.00 | (0.11) | 0.17 | 0.06 | — | (1.09) | (1.09) | $15.97 | 0.50% | 3.06% | 2.45% | (0.64)% | 220% | $1,505 | ||
2018 | $17.63 | (0.28) | 0.97 | 0.69 | — | (1.32) | (1.32) | $17.00 | 3.97% | 3.39% | 2.44% | (1.58)% | 243% | $1,817 | ||
2017 | $15.53 | (0.17) | 2.27 | 2.10 | — | — | — | $17.63 | 13.52% | 3.05% | 2.45% | (1.00)% | 127% | $2,199 | ||
2016 | $16.18 | (0.14) | (0.24) | (0.38) | — | (0.27) | (0.27) | $15.53 | (2.38)% | 2.91% | 2.47% | (0.86)% | 121% | $2,325 | ||
2015 | $15.71 | (0.13) | 1.52 | 1.39 | — | (0.92) | (0.92) | $16.18 | 9.16% | 2.80% | 2.45% | (0.78)% | 115% | $1,306 | ||
R Class | ||||||||||||||||
2019 | $17.63 | (0.02) | 0.17 | 0.15 | — | (1.09) | (1.09) | $16.69 | 1.01% | 2.56% | 1.95% | (0.14)% | 220% | $987 | ||
2018 | $18.15 | (0.19) | 0.99 | 0.80 | — | (1.32) | (1.32) | $17.63 | 4.54% | 2.89% | 1.94% | (1.08)% | 243% | $767 | ||
2017 | $15.90 | (0.08) | 2.33 | 2.25 | — | — | — | $18.15 | 14.09% | 2.55% | 1.95% | (0.50)% | 127% | $473 | ||
2016 | $16.48 | (0.06) | (0.25) | (0.31) | — | (0.27) | (0.27) | $15.90 | (1.91)% | 2.41% | 1.97% | (0.36)% | 121% | $171 | ||
2015 | $15.91 | (0.04) | 1.53 | 1.49 | — | (0.92) | (0.92) | $16.48 | 9.69% | 2.30% | 1.95% | (0.28)% | 115% | $44 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day and do not reflect applicable sales charges, if any. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
(3) | Per share amount was less than $0.005. |
(4) | Ratio was less than 0.005%. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of AC Alternatives® Disciplined Long Short Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of AC Alternatives® Disciplined Long Short Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
37
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
38
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
39
Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
40
Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
41
Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was below its benchmark for the one-, three-, and five-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
42
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer universe. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
43
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
44
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
45
Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates $2,826,321, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
46
Notes |
47
Notes |
48
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92995 1908 |
ANNUAL REPORT | |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
AC Alternatives® Equity Market Neutral Fund |
Investor Class (ALHIX) |
I Class (ALISX) |
Y Class (ALYIX) |
A Class (ALIAX) |
C Class (ALICX) |
R Class (ALIRX) |
R5 Class (ALIGX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
President's Letter | 2 | |
Performance | 3 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
President’s Letter |
Jonathan Thomas
Dear Investor:
Thank you for reviewing this annual report for the period ended June 30, 2019. Annual reports help convey important information about fund returns, including market factors that affected performance during the reporting period. For additional investment and market insights, we encourage you to visit our website, americancentury.com.
Markets Overcame Heightened Volatility
Most broad large- and mid-cap stock indices ended the 12-month period with gains. However, these positive results masked some severe volatility, which led to wide performance swings. For example, the S&P 500 Index returned -6.85% in the first half of the period and 18.54% in the second half, leaving the index up 10.42% for the year. Even more dramatic, the S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index returned -21.91% in the first half of the reporting period, 13.34% in the second half, and -11.49% overall.
Fed’s Flip Fueled Investor Optimism
In the first half, mounting concerns about slowing global economic and earnings growth and Federal Reserve (Fed) policy soured investor sentiment. After raising rates in September, the Fed hiked again in December and delivered a surprisingly hawkish rate-hike outlook that worried investors and fueled a steep sell-off among riskier assets. Meanwhile, the risk-off climate sparked a flight to quality. Treasury yields plunged, triggering a rally among perceived safe-haven assets.
The new year brought a renewed sense of stability to financial markets and a key policy pivot from the Fed. The central bank abruptly and unexpectedly ended its rate-hike campaign and adopted a dovish tone amid moderating global growth and inflation. Additionally, investors’ worst-case fears about growth, trade and corporate earnings eased. Equity valuations appeared attractive, and a rally ensued. At the same time, Treasury yields continued to fall on moderating global growth data, muted inflation and accommodative central bank policy, which supported continued gains for interest rate-sensitive assets.
Looking ahead, we expect volatility to remain a formidable factor as investors react to global growth and trade trends, central bank policy and geopolitical developments. We believe this scenario underscores the importance of using professionally managed portfolios in pursuit of your investment goals. We appreciate your continued trust and confidence in us.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Thomas
President and Chief Executive Officer
American Century Investments
2
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | ||||||
Average Annual Returns | ||||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | ALHIX | -2.17% | -0.33% | 1.00% | — | 9/30/05 |
Bloomberg Barclays U.S. 1-3 Month Treasury Bill Index | — | 2.27% | 0.83% | 0.45% | — | — |
I Class | ALISX | -2.12% | -0.15% | 1.19% | — | 9/30/05 |
Y Class | ALYIX | -2.03% | — | — | -0.53% | 4/10/17 |
A Class | ALIAX | 9/30/05 | ||||
No sales charge | -2.42% | -0.58% | 0.74% | — | ||
With sales charge | -8.03% | -1.74% | 0.14% | — | ||
C Class | ALICX | -3.26% | -1.34% | -0.02% | — | 9/30/05 |
R Class | ALIRX | -2.68% | -0.82% | 0.50% | — | 9/30/05 |
R5 Class | ALIGX | -2.03% | — | — | -0.57% | 4/10/17 |
Average annual returns since inception are presented when ten years of performance history is not available.
Sales charges include initial sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSCs), as applicable. A Class shares have a 5.75% maximum initial sales charge and may be subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. C Class shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase are subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. The SEC requires that mutual funds provide performance information net of maximum sales charges in all cases where charges could be applied.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
3
Growth of $10,000 Over 10 Years |
$10,000 investment made June 30, 2009 |
Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure. |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $11,043 | |
Bloomberg Barclays U.S. 1-3 Month Treasury Bill Index — $10,464 | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | ||||||
Investor Class | I Class | Y Class | A Class | C Class | R Class | R5 Class |
3.07% | 2.87% | 2.82% | 3.32% | 4.07% | 3.57% | 2.87% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
4
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Brian Garbe and Claudia Musat
Performance Summary
AC Alternatives Equity Market Neutral returned -2.17%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, compared with the 2.27% return of its benchmark, the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. 1-3 Month Treasury Bill Index.
AC Alternatives Equity Market Neutral is managed to produce capital appreciation independent of equity market conditions, so its benchmark is a cash-equivalent asset: the three-month U.S. Treasury bill. Within the fund, positioning within the consumer discretionary and communication services sectors detracted the most from absolute returns, while industrials and energy contributed the most to results. Many of the leading detractors from performance were short positions that underperformed as the stock market surged in the second half of the reporting period.
Consumer Discretionary Sector Led Detractors
Positioning within the consumer discretionary sector was the leading detractor from returns for the period. Both long and short positions provided a headwind. A short position in Planet Fitness was one of the top individual detractors from performance. The stock of the fitness company rose the latter half of the year, fueled by strong revenue growth. The company scores poorly for sentiment, growth and valuation according to our model. We have closed the position. A long position in Las Vegas Sands also hurt results. The stock experienced price volatility during the period and its factor scores declined. We closed the position. Elsewhere in the sector, a short position in automotive specialty retailer Monro was also among the top individual detractors from portfolio results. The stock maintains low scores for growth and valuation. Within the personal products industry, a long position in Edgewell Personal Care was one of the largest headwinds to portfolio results. The stock fell in part due to investor concerns following an acquisition announcement. The stock maintains high scores for valuation and sentiment.
Within communication services, the media industry detracted the most from relative performance. One of the largest detractors was a short position in The New York Times Co. The news organization saw an increase in online subscriptions over the period, which contributed to a rising stock price, particularly over the latter half of the fiscal year. Positioning within the entertainment industry also detracted, where a long holding in video game maker Electronic Arts provided a headwind. Other top individual detractors for the period included short positions in IT services company Altran Technologies and distributor Core-Mark Holding. We have closed the position in Core-Mark Holding.
Industrials and Energy Sectors Led Contributors
Positioning within the industrials sector was the largest contributor. Cumulative results from long and short positions in both the commercial services and supplies and construction and engineering industries provided a tailwind for returns. Within the energy sector, the oil, gas and consumable fuels industry bolstered results. A long position in CVR Energy was among the top contributors to sector performance as was a short position in Matador Resources. Within the energy equipment and services industry, a short position in Oceaneering International was among the leading individual contributors for the period. The offshore energy company’s stock slid along with the price of oil during late 2018. The stock scores poorly for valuation and growth factors. We have since closed the position.
*All fund returns referenced in this commentary are for Investor Class shares. Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure; when Investor Class performance exceeds that of the fund’s benchmark, other share classes may not. See page 3 for returns for all share classes.
5
Although consumer discretionary and information technology were not among the best-performing sectors, several companies within them made significant contributions to portfolio performance. Within consumer discretionary, a short position in automotive electronic seat manufacturer Adient bolstered results, as the stock price fell during the first half of the period. We have exited the position. A long position in AutoZone was also among the leading contributors. The stock rose throughout the year, backed by strong consumer demand and positive fundamentals. The automotive retailer scores highly for sentiment, quality and valuation. In information technology, a short position in online education company 2U generated strong results. The stock price fell on reduced enrollment and revenues. The stock earns low scores across our sentiment and valuation factors. A short position in analog semiconductor manufacturer ams AG also contributed to relative returns. We have since exited the position.
Portfolio Positioning
Our disciplined, objective and systematic investment strategy is designed to take advantage of opportunities at the individual company level, in both the long and short portions of the portfolio. We believe this approach is the most powerful way to capitalize on market inefficiencies that lead to the mispricing of individual stocks. These bottom-up stock decisions collectively point toward long and short allocations to broader industries and sectors.
At period-end, we have long positions in information technology and communication services holdings as we continue to see investment opportunities that offer the potential for gains across multiple measures of our stock-selection model in these sectors. In information technology, software and communications equipment are areas of particular interest. Large-cap technology stocks have been rewarded with price appreciation for their innovation, ingenuity and growth. With high-growth stocks occupying much of center stage the last few years, we believe it is important not to lose sight of valuations. As reflected in our model, on the long side, we want to look for growing, quality companies with lower valuations. In the communication services sector, we feel these opportunities are most present in the entertainment industry. Conversely, our largest net short positions at period-end were in real estate-related equities and utilities. In real estate, we see equity real estate investment trusts (REITs) and real estate management and development companies as areas of opportunity for short positions. It’s a similar story for mortgage REITs, which are categorized in the financials sector. Utilities stocks score poorly across multiple dimensions of our model. Specifically, we see opportunity on the short side in water and electric utilities.
6
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Long Holdings | % of net assets |
Dialog Semiconductor plc | 1.04% |
Deckers Outdoor Corp. | 1.00% |
eBay, Inc. | 1.00% |
Snap-on, Inc. | 1.00% |
CVR Energy, Inc. | 0.99% |
Keysight Technologies, Inc. | 0.99% |
Gaztransport Et Technigaz SA | 0.99% |
Progressive Corp. (The) | 0.99% |
Bank of America Corp. | 0.97% |
Integer Holdings Corp. | 0.96% |
Top Ten Short Holdings | % of net assets |
Howard Hughes Corp. (The) | (1.05)% |
GATX Corp. | (1.02)% |
Pool Corp. | (1.01)% |
Equifax, Inc. | (0.99)% |
Caesars Entertainment Corp. | (0.99)% |
Equinix, Inc. | (0.99)% |
Linde plc | (0.98)% |
TFS Financial Corp. | (0.97)% |
WR Berkley Corp. | (0.97)% |
AerCap Holdings NV | (0.95)% |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Domestic Common Stocks | 82.7% |
Foreign Common Stocks* | 14.6% |
Domestic Common Stocks Sold Short | (83.9)% |
Foreign Common Stocks Sold Short* | (14.0)% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 1.2% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | 99.4%** |
*Includes depositary shares, dual listed securities and foreign ordinary shares.
**Amount relates primarily to deposits for securities sold short at period end.
7
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
If you hold Investor Class shares of any American Century Investments fund, or I Class shares of the American Century Diversified Bond Fund, in an American Century Investments account (i.e., not a financial intermediary or retirement plan account), American Century Investments may charge you a $12.50 semiannual account maintenance fee if the value of those shares is less than $10,000. We will redeem shares automatically in one of your accounts to pay the $12.50 fee. In determining your total eligible investment amount, we will include your investments in all personal accounts (including American Century Investments Brokerage accounts) registered under your Social Security number. Personal accounts include individual accounts, joint accounts, UGMA/UTMA accounts, personal trusts, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and IRAs (including traditional, Roth, Rollover, SEP-, SARSEP- and SIMPLE-IRAs), and certain other retirement accounts. If you have only business, business retirement, employer-sponsored or American Century Investments Brokerage accounts, you are currently not subject to this fee. If you are subject to the Account Maintenance Fee, your account value could be reduced by the fee amount.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
8
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $959.90 | $16.38 | 3.37% |
I Class | $1,000 | $960.00 | $15.41 | 3.17% |
Y Class | $1,000 | $960.90 | $15.17 | 3.12% |
A Class | $1,000 | $958.60 | $17.58 | 3.62% |
C Class | $1,000 | $954.40 | $21.18 | 4.37% |
R Class | $1,000 | $957.30 | $18.78 | 3.87% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $960.80 | $15.41 | 3.17% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,008.08 | $16.78 | 3.37% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,009.08 | $15.79 | 3.17% |
Y Class | $1,000 | $1,009.32 | $15.54 | 3.12% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,006.84 | $18.01 | 3.62% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,003.12 | $21.70 | 4.37% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,005.60 | $19.24 | 3.87% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $1,009.08 | $15.79 | 3.17% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
9
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 97.3% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — 1.7% | ||||
Curtiss-Wright Corp. | 4,230 | $ | 537,760 | |
Mercury Systems, Inc.(1) | 6,560 | 461,496 | ||
999,256 | ||||
Air Freight and Logistics — 0.6% | ||||
CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc. | 2,998 | 252,881 | ||
SG Holdings Co. Ltd. | 4,400 | 124,857 | ||
377,738 | ||||
Airlines — 0.6% | ||||
Air France-KLM(1) | 38,413 | 369,210 | ||
Automobiles — 0.5% | ||||
Isuzu Motors Ltd. | 15,000 | 171,647 | ||
Peugeot SA | 3,957 | 97,524 | ||
269,171 | ||||
Banks — 7.2% | ||||
Bank of America Corp.(2) | 19,883 | 576,607 | ||
BB&T Corp. | 1,460 | 71,730 | ||
Comerica, Inc.(2) | 6,809 | 494,606 | ||
Fifth Third Bancorp | 17,839 | 497,708 | ||
First Citizens BancShares, Inc., Class A(2) | 1,010 | 454,773 | ||
Huntington Bancshares, Inc. | 12,943 | 178,872 | ||
JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 4,732 | 529,037 | ||
KeyCorp | 11,858 | 210,479 | ||
Popular, Inc. | 7,515 | 407,614 | ||
SunTrust Banks, Inc.(2) | 7,961 | 500,349 | ||
Wells Fargo & Co. | 8,206 | 388,308 | ||
4,310,083 | ||||
Biotechnology — 1.8% | ||||
AbbVie, Inc. | 1,858 | 135,114 | ||
Amgen, Inc. | 811 | 149,451 | ||
Biogen, Inc.(1) | 676 | 158,096 | ||
Celgene Corp.(1) | 1,569 | 145,038 | ||
Genomic Health, Inc.(1) | 2,801 | 162,934 | ||
Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 10,138 | 174,171 | ||
Incyte Corp.(1) | 1,926 | 163,633 | ||
1,088,437 | ||||
Building Products — 0.9% | ||||
Masco Corp.(2) | 14,177 | 556,306 | ||
Capital Markets — 3.6% | ||||
Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc., Class A | 17,843 | 491,039 | ||
Evercore, Inc., Class A(2) | 5,883 | 521,057 | ||
FactSet Research Systems, Inc. | 873 | 250,167 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
LPL Financial Holdings, Inc.(2) | 6,933 | $ | 565,525 | |
MSCI, Inc. | 1,357 | 324,038 | ||
2,151,826 | ||||
Chemicals — 1.4% | ||||
Axalta Coating Systems Ltd.(1) | 4,868 | 144,920 | ||
CF Industries Holdings, Inc. | 5,493 | 256,578 | ||
NewMarket Corp. | 572 | 229,338 | ||
NOF Corp. | 5,200 | 194,310 | ||
Valvoline, Inc. | 1,749 | 34,158 | ||
859,304 | ||||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 1.9% | ||||
Cimpress NV(1) | 5,261 | 478,172 | ||
Clean Harbors, Inc.(1)(2) | 6,959 | 494,785 | ||
Deluxe Corp. | 3,332 | 135,479 | ||
Republic Services, Inc. | 514 | 44,533 | ||
1,152,969 | ||||
Communications Equipment — 1.9% | ||||
Ciena Corp.(1) | 8,877 | 365,111 | ||
Cisco Systems, Inc. | 8,195 | 448,512 | ||
Plantronics, Inc. | 5,586 | 206,906 | ||
Viavi Solutions, Inc.(1) | 6,462 | 85,880 | ||
1,106,409 | ||||
Construction and Engineering — 1.4% | ||||
CIMIC Group Ltd. | 6,474 | 203,882 | ||
EMCOR Group, Inc.(2) | 5,803 | 511,244 | ||
HOCHTIEF AG | 851 | 103,638 | ||
818,764 | ||||
Consumer Finance — 2.0% | ||||
Discover Financial Services(2) | 6,615 | 513,258 | ||
Green Dot Corp., Class A(1) | 4,507 | 220,392 | ||
Synchrony Financial(2) | 13,050 | 452,444 | ||
1,186,094 | ||||
Containers and Packaging — 0.7% | ||||
Berry Global Group, Inc.(1) | 7,999 | 420,667 | ||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.7% | ||||
Verizon Communications, Inc. | 7,109 | 406,137 | ||
Electric Utilities — 1.1% | ||||
Contact Energy Ltd. | 104,136 | 559,963 | ||
IDACORP, Inc. | 1,155 | 115,997 | ||
675,960 | ||||
Electrical Equipment — 1.1% | ||||
Acuity Brands, Inc. | 2,235 | 308,229 | ||
Rockwell Automation, Inc. | 2,240 | 366,979 | ||
675,208 | ||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 2.2% | ||||
CDW Corp. | 1,718 | 190,698 | ||
Keysight Technologies, Inc.(1)(2) | 6,564 | 589,513 |
11
Shares | Value | |||
National Instruments Corp. | 12,070 | $ | 506,819 | |
1,287,030 | ||||
Energy Equipment and Services — 0.8% | ||||
SBM Offshore NV | 24,557 | 475,362 | ||
Entertainment — 2.3% | ||||
Activision Blizzard, Inc. | 7,856 | 370,803 | ||
Electronic Arts, Inc.(1) | 5,394 | 546,197 | ||
Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.(1) | 3,815 | 433,117 | ||
1,350,117 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 3.2% | ||||
American Homes 4 Rent, Class A | 3,062 | 74,437 | ||
Empire State Realty Trust, Inc., Class A | 23,812 | 352,656 | ||
GEO Group, Inc. (The)(2) | 19,266 | 404,778 | ||
Healthcare Trust of America, Inc., Class A(2) | 15,897 | 436,055 | ||
Outfront Media, Inc. | 19,849 | 511,906 | ||
Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc. | 10,894 | 149,357 | ||
1,929,189 | ||||
Food and Staples Retailing — 0.4% | ||||
Performance Food Group Co.(1) | 6,133 | 245,504 | ||
Food Products — 2.3% | ||||
a2 Milk Co. Ltd.(1) | 7,945 | 78,465 | ||
General Mills, Inc. | 9,078 | 476,777 | ||
Hershey Co. (The) | 3,067 | 411,070 | ||
Inghams Group Ltd. | 143,560 | 405,646 | ||
1,371,958 | ||||
Gas Utilities — 0.1% | ||||
Italgas SpA | 9,420 | 63,244 | ||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 4.7% | ||||
DexCom, Inc.(1) | 2,526 | 378,496 | ||
Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. | 4,585 | 479,683 | ||
Hologic, Inc.(1) | 10,103 | 485,146 | ||
Hoya Corp. | 2,700 | 207,395 | ||
Integer Holdings Corp.(1) | 6,801 | 570,740 | ||
Medtronic plc | 1,736 | 169,069 | ||
NuVasive, Inc.(1)(2) | 8,909 | 521,533 | ||
2,812,062 | ||||
Health Care Providers and Services — 1.4% | ||||
Amedisys, Inc.(1) | 4,138 | 502,394 | ||
HealthEquity, Inc.(1) | 4,752 | 310,781 | ||
813,175 | ||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 3.3% | ||||
Cheesecake Factory, Inc. (The) | 11,441 | 500,200 | ||
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.(1) | 639 | 468,310 | ||
Darden Restaurants, Inc. | 3,303 | 402,074 | ||
Jack in the Box, Inc. | 2,522 | 205,266 | ||
Sands China Ltd. | 6,800 | 32,513 | ||
Starbucks Corp. | 859 | 72,010 |
12
Shares | Value | |||
Texas Roadhouse, Inc. | 5,525 | $ | 296,527 | |
1,976,900 | ||||
Household Durables — 1.0% | ||||
Sony Corp. | 4,000 | 208,996 | ||
TomTom NV(1) | 32,637 | 375,760 | ||
584,756 | ||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.8% | ||||
NRG Energy, Inc. | 13,690 | 480,793 | ||
Insurance — 3.8% | ||||
Mercury General Corp. | 8,158 | 509,875 | ||
MetLife, Inc. | 6,566 | 326,133 | ||
National General Holdings Corp. | 19,887 | 456,208 | ||
Progressive Corp. (The)(2) | 7,343 | 586,926 | ||
Unipol Gruppo SpA | 78,935 | 383,628 | ||
2,262,770 | ||||
Interactive Media and Services — 0.9% | ||||
Snap, Inc., Class A(1) | 35,627 | 509,466 | ||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 1.6% | ||||
Amazon.com, Inc.(1) | 200 | 378,726 | ||
eBay, Inc.(2) | 15,106 | 596,687 | ||
975,413 | ||||
IT Services — 3.3% | ||||
Akamai Technologies, Inc.(1) | 6,621 | 530,607 | ||
Amdocs Ltd. | 5,093 | 316,224 | ||
CACI International, Inc., Class A(1) | 960 | 196,407 | ||
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 1,525 | 403,408 | ||
PayPal Holdings, Inc.(1) | 2,718 | 311,102 | ||
Visa, Inc., Class A | 1,025 | 177,889 | ||
1,935,637 | ||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 1.8% | ||||
Agilent Technologies, Inc. | 5,518 | 412,029 | ||
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Class A(1) | 453 | 141,604 | ||
Bruker Corp. | 4,681 | 233,816 | ||
Evotec SE(1) | 1,915 | 53,524 | ||
Illumina, Inc.(1) | 674 | 248,133 | ||
1,089,106 | ||||
Machinery — 3.2% | ||||
Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. | 10,894 | 504,937 | ||
Gardner Denver Holdings, Inc.(1) | 5,883 | 203,552 | ||
Snap-on, Inc.(2) | 3,586 | 593,985 | ||
Watts Water Technologies, Inc., Class A | 2,972 | 276,931 | ||
Woodward, Inc. | 2,673 | 302,476 | ||
1,881,881 | ||||
Metals and Mining — 3.4% | ||||
Anglo American plc | 18,711 | 535,211 | ||
BHP Group plc | 9,019 | 230,186 | ||
Evraz plc | 34,801 | 295,050 |
13
Shares | Value | |||
Iluka Resources Ltd. | 66,788 | $ | 506,177 | |
Steel Dynamics, Inc. | 14,378 | 434,216 | ||
2,000,840 | ||||
Multi-Utilities — 0.9% | ||||
ACEA SpA | 5,960 | 113,397 | ||
AGL Energy Ltd. | 6,247 | 87,815 | ||
RWE AG | 12,588 | 310,316 | ||
511,528 | ||||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 4.6% | ||||
Aker BP ASA(2) | 15,364 | 442,992 | ||
Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. | 12,391 | 284,497 | ||
CVR Energy, Inc.(2) | 11,817 | 590,732 | ||
Delek US Holdings, Inc. | 5,925 | 240,081 | ||
Gaztransport Et Technigaz SA(2) | 5,867 | 588,143 | ||
HollyFrontier Corp. | 4,179 | 193,404 | ||
Lundin Petroleum AB | 3,019 | 93,954 | ||
Phillips 66 | 3,372 | 315,417 | ||
2,749,220 | ||||
Paper and Forest Products — 0.8% | ||||
Domtar Corp.(2) | 10,655 | 474,467 | ||
Personal Products — 0.5% | ||||
Edgewell Personal Care Co.(1) | 11,472 | 309,170 | ||
Pharmaceuticals — 1.8% | ||||
Allergan plc | 945 | 158,221 | ||
Astellas Pharma, Inc. | 11,400 | 162,771 | ||
Horizon Therapeutics plc(1) | 5,665 | 136,300 | ||
Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc(1) | 1,157 | 164,942 | ||
Roche Holding AG | 554 | 155,877 | ||
Shionogi & Co. Ltd. | 2,600 | 150,128 | ||
Zoetis, Inc. | 982 | 111,447 | ||
1,039,686 | ||||
Professional Services — 3.4% | ||||
Akka Technologies | 1,203 | 86,596 | ||
ASGN, Inc.(1)(2) | 8,079 | 489,587 | ||
CoStar Group, Inc.(1)(2) | 872 | 483,140 | ||
Korn Ferry(2) | 9,625 | 385,674 | ||
Robert Half International, Inc. | 5,977 | 340,749 | ||
Verisk Analytics, Inc. | 1,596 | 233,750 | ||
2,019,496 | ||||
Real Estate Management and Development — 0.2% | ||||
Swire Properties Ltd. | 27,000 | 109,130 | ||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 3.7% | ||||
Cirrus Logic, Inc.(1)(2) | 11,897 | 519,899 | ||
Dialog Semiconductor plc(1)(2) | 15,286 | 616,656 | ||
Intel Corp. | 7,796 | 373,195 | ||
Qorvo, Inc.(1)(2) | 6,046 | 402,724 | ||
Semtech Corp.(1) | 5,002 | 240,346 |
14
Shares | Value | |||
Xilinx, Inc. | 283 | $ | 33,371 | |
2,186,191 | ||||
Software — 3.9% | ||||
Cadence Design Systems, Inc.(1)(2) | 6,668 | 472,161 | ||
CommVault Systems, Inc.(1) | 2,151 | 106,733 | ||
Cornerstone OnDemand, Inc.(1) | 4,912 | 284,552 | ||
LogMeIn, Inc. | 6,197 | 456,595 | ||
Oracle Corp. (New York) | 2,739 | 156,041 | ||
Proofpoint, Inc.(1) | 3,094 | 372,053 | ||
Symantec Corp. | 9,211 | 200,431 | ||
Teradata Corp.(1) | 7,555 | 270,847 | ||
2,319,413 | ||||
Specialty Retail — 2.6% | ||||
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. | 5,851 | 98,882 | ||
AutoZone, Inc.(1) | 472 | 518,950 | ||
Dunelm Group plc | 8,076 | 94,359 | ||
Foot Locker, Inc. | 6,541 | 274,199 | ||
Murphy USA, Inc.(1) | 6,520 | 547,875 | ||
1,534,265 | ||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals — 0.5% | ||||
Logitech International SA | 1,234 | 49,436 | ||
Seagate Technology plc | 5,300 | 249,736 | ||
299,172 | ||||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 1.2% | ||||
Deckers Outdoor Corp.(1)(2) | 3,393 | 597,066 | ||
Steven Madden Ltd. | 2,304 | 78,221 | ||
Under Armour, Inc., Class C(1) | 1,450 | 32,190 | ||
707,477 | ||||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — 0.9% | ||||
Essent Group Ltd.(1)(2) | 11,942 | 561,155 | ||
Trading Companies and Distributors — 1.1% | ||||
HD Supply Holdings, Inc.(1) | 11,420 | 459,998 | ||
W.W. Grainger, Inc. | 730 | 195,808 | ||
655,806 | ||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 1.6% | ||||
Shenandoah Telecommunications Co. | 11,073 | 426,532 | ||
Telephone & Data Systems, Inc.(2) | 16,991 | 516,526 | ||
943,058 | ||||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $53,346,517) | 57,887,976 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 1.2% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $598,735), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $587,967) | 587,857 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.75%, 7/15/28, valued at $117,005), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $111,012) | 111,000 |
15
Shares | Value | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 4,221 | $ | 4,221 | |
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $703,078) | 703,078 | |||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES BEFORE SECURITIES SOLD SHORT — 98.5% (Cost $54,049,595) | 58,591,054 | |||
COMMON STOCKS SOLD SHORT — (97.9)% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — (0.9)% | ||||
Arconic, Inc. | (1,954) | (50,452 | ) | |
BWX Technologies, Inc. | (9,495) | (494,690 | ) | |
(545,142 | ) | |||
Airlines — (0.1)% | ||||
American Airlines Group, Inc. | (2,268) | (73,960 | ) | |
Auto Components — (1.5)% | ||||
Dorman Products, Inc. | (3,502) | (305,164 | ) | |
LCI Industries | (5,111) | (459,990 | ) | |
Visteon Corp. | (1,788) | (104,741 | ) | |
(869,895 | ) | |||
Banks — (6.2)% | ||||
Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp. | (13,048) | (460,986 | ) | |
BancorpSouth Bank | (4,394) | (127,602 | ) | |
BOK Financial Corp. | (2,865) | (216,250 | ) | |
Cadence BanCorp | (4,193) | (87,214 | ) | |
First Financial Bancorp | (22,880) | (554,154 | ) | |
Fulton Financial Corp. | (31,961) | (523,201 | ) | |
Old National Bancorp | (33,120) | (549,461 | ) | |
Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc. | (8,989) | (516,688 | ) | |
Simmons First National Corp., Class A | (1,392) | (32,378 | ) | |
United Bankshares, Inc. | (13,750) | (509,987 | ) | |
Valley National Bancorp | (10,174) | (109,676 | ) | |
(3,687,597 | ) | |||
Beverages — (0.9)% | ||||
Brown-Forman Corp., Class B | (9,355) | (518,548 | ) | |
Biotechnology — (0.9)% | ||||
Global Blood Therapeutics, Inc. | (2,619) | (137,759 | ) | |
Madrigal Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (1,260) | (132,061 | ) | |
Sage Therapeutics, Inc. | (506) | (92,644 | ) | |
Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc. | (1,314) | (199,662 | ) | |
(562,126 | ) | |||
Capital Markets — (3.6)% | ||||
Ares Management Corp., Class A | (17,340) | (453,788 | ) | |
Bank of New York Mellon Corp. (The) | (2,721) | (120,132 | ) | |
CME Group, Inc. | (2,443) | (474,211 | ) | |
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (The) | (1,573) | (321,836 | ) | |
Hamilton Lane, Inc., Class A | (3,739) | (213,347 | ) | |
KKR & Co., Inc., Class A | (21,661) | (547,373 | ) | |
(2,130,687 | ) |
16
Shares | Value | |||
Chemicals — (3.4)% | ||||
International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc. | (3,163) | $ | (458,920 | ) |
Johnson Matthey plc | (3,448) | (146,256 | ) | |
Linde plc | (2,903) | (582,922 | ) | |
Sensient Technologies Corp. | (6,024) | (442,644 | ) | |
Umicore SA | (11,789) | (379,050 | ) | |
(2,009,792 | ) | |||
Commercial Services and Supplies — (0.9)% | ||||
Healthcare Services Group, Inc. | (1,707) | (51,756 | ) | |
Stericycle, Inc. | (9,569) | (456,920 | ) | |
(508,676 | ) | |||
Construction and Engineering — (2.6)% | ||||
Fluor Corp. | (2,319) | (78,127 | ) | |
Granite Construction, Inc. | (11,323) | (545,542 | ) | |
JGC Corp. | (33,900) | (466,963 | ) | |
Penta-Ocean Construction Co. Ltd. | (94,900) | (465,956 | ) | |
(1,556,588 | ) | |||
Consumer Finance — (0.4)% | ||||
SLM Corp. | (24,155) | (234,787 | ) | |
Containers and Packaging — (1.0)% | ||||
Avery Dennison Corp. | (366) | (42,339 | ) | |
Graphic Packaging Holding Co. | (40,000) | (559,200 | ) | |
(601,539 | ) | |||
Distributors — (1.0)% | ||||
Pool Corp. | (3,159) | (603,369 | ) | |
Diversified Financial Services — (0.9)% | ||||
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B | (2,394) | (510,329 | ) | |
Diversified Telecommunication Services — (0.4)% | ||||
Cellnex Telecom SA | (4,289) | (158,772 | ) | |
Iliad SA | (930) | (104,674 | ) | |
(263,446 | ) | |||
Electric Utilities — (2.7)% | ||||
Alliant Energy Corp. | (9,524) | (467,438 | ) | |
Duke Energy Corp. | (4,874) | (430,082 | ) | |
Entergy Corp. | (1,513) | (155,733 | ) | |
Eversource Energy | (7,237) | (548,275 | ) | |
(1,601,528 | ) | |||
Electrical Equipment — (1.3)% | ||||
EnerSys | (6,710) | (459,635 | ) | |
Prysmian SpA | (14,143) | (291,888 | ) | |
(751,523 | ) | |||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — (3.5)% | ||||
Amphenol Corp., Class A | (5,017) | (481,331 | ) | |
Arrow Electronics, Inc. | (6,995) | (498,534 | ) | |
Cognex Corp. | (9,408) | (451,396 | ) | |
IPG Photonics Corp. | (3,528) | (544,194 | ) |
17
Shares | Value | |||
Trimble, Inc. | (2,073) | $ | (93,513 | ) |
(2,068,968 | ) | |||
Energy Equipment and Services — (0.5)% | ||||
Helmerich & Payne, Inc. | (5,860) | (296,633 | ) | |
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — (4.6)% | ||||
Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. | (3,584) | (505,667 | ) | |
Crown Castle International Corp. | (1,695) | (220,943 | ) | |
CyrusOne, Inc. | (7,363) | (424,992 | ) | |
Equinix, Inc. | (1,170) | (590,019 | ) | |
Liberty Property Trust | (10,332) | (517,013 | ) | |
Pebblebrook Hotel Trust | (2,117) | (59,657 | ) | |
ProLogis, Inc. | (5,405) | (432,941 | ) | |
(2,751,232 | ) | |||
Food Products — (4.3)% | ||||
Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. | (11,055) | (451,044 | ) | |
Darling Ingredients, Inc. | (22,638) | (450,270 | ) | |
Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (The) | (14,126) | (309,359 | ) | |
J&J Snack Foods Corp. | (3,241) | (521,639 | ) | |
Schouw & Co. A/S | (6,236) | (474,940 | ) | |
Seaboard Corp. | (86) | (355,760 | ) | |
(2,563,012 | ) | |||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — (4.9)% | ||||
Ambu A/S, Class B | (19,754) | (320,008 | ) | |
Avanos Medical, Inc. | (12,401) | (540,808 | ) | |
Boston Scientific Corp. | (11,896) | (511,290 | ) | |
Cantel Medical Corp. | (5,957) | (480,372 | ) | |
Merit Medical Systems, Inc. | (1,275) | (75,939 | ) | |
Neogen Corp. | (8,779) | (545,264 | ) | |
Wright Medical Group NV | (15,679) | (467,548 | ) | |
(2,941,229 | ) | |||
Health Care Providers and Services — (1.3)% | ||||
Acadia Healthcare Co., Inc. | (8,793) | (307,315 | ) | |
Cigna Corp. | (2,320) | (365,516 | ) | |
Ryman Healthcare Ltd. | (15,847) | (125,187 | ) | |
(798,018 | ) | |||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — (5.4)% | ||||
Caesars Entertainment Corp. | (49,917) | (590,019 | ) | |
Churchill Downs, Inc. | (3,923) | (451,420 | ) | |
Domino's Pizza, Inc. | (347) | (96,563 | ) | |
Eldorado Resorts, Inc. | (8,168) | (376,300 | ) | |
Hyatt Hotels Corp., Class A | (3,961) | (301,551 | ) | |
Marriott International, Inc., Class A | (3,748) | (525,807 | ) | |
Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corp. | (3,312) | (319,277 | ) | |
Tosho Co. Ltd. | (3,500) | (88,859 | ) | |
Wynn Resorts Ltd. | (3,680) | (456,283 | ) | |
(3,206,079 | ) |
18
Shares | Value | |||
Household Durables — (0.9)% | ||||
D.R. Horton, Inc. | (1,705) | $ | (73,537 | ) |
Leggett & Platt, Inc. | (11,892) | (456,296 | ) | |
(529,833 | ) | |||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — (0.9)% | ||||
Ormat Technologies, Inc. | (7,987) | (506,296 | ) | |
Insurance — (3.4)% | ||||
Beazley plc | (41,722) | (292,883 | ) | |
Brown & Brown, Inc. | (5,505) | (184,418 | ) | |
Enstar Group Ltd. | (2,755) | (480,141 | ) | |
Hiscox Ltd. | (23,434) | (504,891 | ) | |
WR Berkley Corp. | (8,722) | (575,041 | ) | |
(2,037,374 | ) | |||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — (0.7)% | ||||
Wayfair, Inc., Class A | (3,050) | (445,300 | ) | |
IT Services — (4.0)% | ||||
Altran Technologies SA | (27,052) | (429,315 | ) | |
CoreLogic, Inc. | (6,274) | (262,441 | ) | |
GMO internet, Inc. | (22,300) | (405,235 | ) | |
Paychex, Inc. | (3,539) | (291,224 | ) | |
Science Applications International Corp. | (5,843) | (505,770 | ) | |
Twilio, Inc., Class A | (3,337) | (455,000 | ) | |
(2,348,985 | ) | |||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — (0.6)% | ||||
Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. | (2,652) | (376,319 | ) | |
Machinery — (3.1)% | ||||
Deere & Co. | (3,297) | (546,346 | ) | |
Donaldson Co., Inc. | (9,192) | (467,505 | ) | |
Interpump Group SpA | (9,856) | (308,424 | ) | |
Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. | (1,255) | (181,485 | ) | |
Terex Corp. | (10,539) | (330,925 | ) | |
(1,834,685 | ) | |||
Media — (1.1)% | ||||
New York Times Co. (The), Class A | (6,536) | (213,204 | ) | |
Walt Disney Co. (The) | (3,189) | (445,312 | ) | |
(658,516 | ) | |||
Metals and Mining — (1.4)% | ||||
Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc. | (41,927) | (447,361 | ) | |
Fresnillo plc | (35,484) | (392,751 | ) | |
(840,112 | ) | |||
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — (1.9)% | ||||
AGNC Investment Corp. | (33,374) | (561,351 | ) | |
Annaly Capital Management, Inc. | (14,251) | (130,111 | ) | |
New Residential Investment Corp. | (27,890) | (429,227 | ) | |
(1,120,689 | ) | |||
Multi-Utilities — (0.8)% | ||||
Sempra Energy | (3,416) | (469,495 | ) |
19
Shares | Value | |||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — (5.1)% | ||||
Centennial Resource Development, Inc., Class A | (11,131) | $ | (84,484 | ) |
Concho Resources, Inc. | (1,643) | (169,525 | ) | |
Diamondback Energy, Inc. | (4,024) | (438,495 | ) | |
Exxon Mobil Corp. | (6,299) | (482,692 | ) | |
Matador Resources Co. | (20,216) | (401,894 | ) | |
Noble Energy, Inc. | (18,291) | (409,719 | ) | |
Targa Resources Corp. | (13,379) | (525,260 | ) | |
Williams Cos., Inc. (The) | (18,355) | (514,674 | ) | |
(3,026,743 | ) | |||
Pharmaceuticals — (0.7)% | ||||
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (3,245) | (95,890 | ) | |
Catalent, Inc. | (3,273) | (177,429 | ) | |
Reata Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Class A | (1,666) | (157,187 | ) | |
(430,506 | ) | |||
Professional Services — (1.6)% | ||||
Equifax, Inc. | (4,365) | (590,323 | ) | |
ManpowerGroup, Inc. | (3,832) | (370,171 | ) | |
(960,494 | ) | |||
Real Estate Management and Development — (2.1)% | ||||
Capital & Counties Properties plc | (37,882) | (104,344 | ) | |
Howard Hughes Corp. (The) | (5,047) | (625,021 | ) | |
Kennedy-Wilson Holdings, Inc. | (25,432) | (523,136 | ) | |
(1,252,501 | ) | |||
Road and Rail — (1.6)% | ||||
AMERCO | (1,434) | (542,841 | ) | |
JB Hunt Transport Services, Inc. | (2,247) | (205,398 | ) | |
Ryder System, Inc. | (2,997) | (174,725 | ) | |
(922,964 | ) | |||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — (3.0)% | ||||
Brooks Automation, Inc. | (11,033) | (427,529 | ) | |
Entegris, Inc. | (7,552) | (281,841 | ) | |
First Solar, Inc. | (7,156) | (470,006 | ) | |
SCREEN Holdings Co. Ltd. | (3,400) | (142,689 | ) | |
Ulvac, Inc. | (14,800) | (470,985 | ) | |
(1,793,050 | ) | |||
Software — (1.8)% | ||||
2U, Inc. | (3,199) | (120,410 | ) | |
8x8, Inc. | (9,046) | (218,008 | ) | |
Envestnet, Inc. | (616) | (42,116 | ) | |
Fuji Soft, Inc. | (10,100) | (444,080 | ) | |
Trade Desk, Inc. (The), Class A | (1,142) | (260,125 | ) | |
(1,084,739 | ) | |||
Specialty Retail — (2.9)% | ||||
Burlington Stores, Inc. | (2,374) | (403,936 | ) | |
Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc., Class A | (11,115) | (465,719 | ) | |
Gap, Inc. (The) | (4,193) | (75,348 | ) |
20
Shares | Value | |||
Kingfisher plc | (136,244) | $ | (372,200 | ) |
Monro, Inc. | (2,793) | (238,243 | ) | |
Tiffany & Co. | (1,666) | (156,004 | ) | |
(1,711,450 | ) | |||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — (0.5)% | ||||
Cie Financiere Richemont SA | (3,732) | (316,750 | ) | |
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — (1.0)% | ||||
TFS Financial Corp. | (32,030) | (578,782 | ) | |
Trading Companies and Distributors — (3.1)% | ||||
AerCap Holdings NV | (10,900) | (566,909 | ) | |
Air Lease Corp. | (7,805) | (322,659 | ) | |
GATX Corp. | (7,634) | (605,300 | ) | |
NOW, Inc. | (25,458) | (375,760 | ) | |
(1,870,628 | ) | |||
Water Utilities — (1.6)% | ||||
American Water Works Co., Inc. | (4,272) | (495,552 | ) | |
Aqua America, Inc. | (10,869) | (449,651 | ) | |
(945,203 | ) | |||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — (0.9)% | ||||
Sprint Corp. | (78,164) | (513,537 | ) | |
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS SOLD SHORT (Proceeds $55,613,845) | (58,229,654 | ) | ||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES(3) — 99.4% | 59,109,297 | |||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 59,470,697 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
(2) | Security, or a portion thereof, has been pledged at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements on securities sold short. At the period end, the aggregate value of securities pledged was $13,099,376. |
(3) | Amount relates primarily to deposits for securities sold short at period end. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
21
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $54,049,595) | $ | 58,591,054 | |
Foreign currency holdings, at value (cost of $8,068) | 8,075 | ||
Deposits for securities sold short | 59,221,065 | ||
Receivable for investments sold | 3,542,768 | ||
Receivable for capital shares sold | 34,437 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 140,738 | ||
121,538,137 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Securities sold short, at value (proceeds of $55,613,845) | 58,229,654 | ||
Disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 687 | ||
Payable for investments purchased | 3,598,689 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 35,026 | ||
Accrued management fees | 62,613 | ||
Distribution and service fees payable | 3,410 | ||
Dividend expense payable on securities sold short | 137,361 | ||
62,067,440 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 59,470,697 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 58,372,982 | |
Distributable earnings | 1,097,715 | ||
$ | 59,470,697 |
Net Assets | Shares Outstanding | Net Asset Value Per Share | ||||
Investor Class, $0.01 Par Value | $23,171,485 | 2,204,204 | $10.51 | |||
I Class, $0.01 Par Value | $22,671,848 | 2,100,983 | $10.79 | |||
Y Class, $0.01 Par Value | $6,440,653 | 596,396 | $10.80 | |||
A Class, $0.01 Par Value | $2,784,926 | 273,437 | $10.18* | |||
C Class, $0.01 Par Value | $2,263,159 | 245,678 | $9.21 | |||
R Class, $0.01 Par Value | $2,133,153 | 216,499 | $9.85 | |||
R5 Class, $0.01 Par Value | $5,473 | 507 | $10.79 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
22
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $46,675) | $ | 1,340,588 | |
Interest | 1,287,784 | ||
2,628,372 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Dividend expense on securities sold short | 1,254,529 | ||
Management fees | 925,030 | ||
Distribution and service fees: | |||
A Class | 8,400 | ||
C Class | 39,999 | ||
R Class | 11,917 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 5,057 | ||
Other expenses | 1,569 | ||
2,246,501 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 381,871 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | (248,912 | ) | |
Securities sold short transactions | 1,426,298 | ||
Foreign currency translation transactions | (877 | ) | |
1,176,509 | |||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments | (1,180,750 | ) | |
Securities sold short | (1,618,446 | ) | |
Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | 731 | ||
(2,798,465 | ) | ||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | (1,621,956 | ) | |
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | (1,240,085 | ) |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
23
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 381,871 | $ | (715,325 | ) | |
Net realized gain (loss) | 1,176,509 | 6,124,462 | ||||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (2,798,465 | ) | (3,094,720 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | (1,240,085 | ) | 2,314,417 | |||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings: | ||||||
Investor Class | (1,794,225 | ) | — | |||
I Class | (1,330,784 | ) | — | |||
Y Class | (145,291 | ) | — | |||
A Class | (169,123 | ) | — | |||
C Class | (242,745 | ) | — | |||
R Class | (122,773 | ) | — | |||
R5 Class | (247 | ) | — | |||
Decrease in net assets from distributions | (3,805,188 | ) | — | |||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions (Note 5) | (13,231,865 | ) | (39,883,856 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (18,277,138 | ) | (37,569,439 | ) | ||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 77,747,835 | 115,317,274 | ||||
End of period | $ | 59,470,697 | $ | 77,747,835 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
24
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. AC Alternatives Equity Market Neutral Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek capital appreciation independent of equity market conditions.
The fund offers the Investor Class, I Class, Y Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class. The A Class may incur an initial sales charge. The A Class and C Class may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price. Equity securities initially expressed in local currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the mean of the appropriate currency exchange rate at the close of the NYSE as provided by an independent pricing service.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price
25
of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.
Securities Sold Short — The fund enters into short sales, which is selling securities it does not own, as part of its normal investment activities. Upon selling a security short, the fund will segregate cash, cash equivalents or other appropriate liquid securities in at least an amount equal to the current market value of the securities sold short until the fund replaces the borrowed security. Interest earned on segregated cash for securities sold short, if any, is reflected as interest income. The fund is required to pay any dividends or interest due on securities sold short. Such dividends and interest are recorded as an expense. The fund may pay fees or charges on the assets borrowed for securities sold short. These fees are calculated daily based upon the value of each security sold short and a rate that is dependent on the availability of such security. Liabilities for securities sold short are valued daily and changes in value are recorded as change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on securities sold short. The fund records realized gain (loss) on a security sold short when it is terminated by the fund and includes as a component of net realized gain (loss) on securities sold short transactions.
Foreign Currency Translations — All assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at prevailing exchange rates at period end. The fund may enter into spot foreign currency exchange contracts to facilitate transactions denominated in a foreign currency. Purchases and sales of investment securities, dividend and interest income, spot foreign currency exchange contracts, and expenses are translated at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Net realized and unrealized foreign currency exchange gains or losses related to investment securities are a component of net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments, respectively. Net realized and unrealized foreign currency exchange gains or losses related to securities sold short are a component of net realized gain (loss) on securities sold short transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on securities sold short, respectively.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Segregated Assets — In accordance with the 1940 Act, the fund segregates assets on its books and records to cover certain types of investment securities and other financial instruments. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities segregated to ensure the fund designates a sufficient amount of liquid assets, marked-to-market daily. The fund may also receive assets or be required to pledge assets at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there
26
are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Multiple Class — All shares of the fund represent an equal pro rata interest in the net assets of the class to which such shares belong, and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the fund are allocated to each class of shares based on their relative net assets.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid semiannually. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually.
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS), and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC.
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee) per class. The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except distribution and service fees, expenses on securities sold short, brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on each class's daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The difference in the fee among the classes is a result of their separate arrangements for non-Rule 12b-1 shareholder services. It is not the result of any difference in advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the fund's assets, which do not vary by class. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The Investment Category Fee range, the Complex Fee range and the effective annual management fee for each class for the period ended June 30, 2019 are as follows:
Investment Category Fee Range | Complex Fee Range | Effective Annual Management Fee | |
Investor Class | 1.0480% to 1.2300% | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.37% |
I Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 1.17% | |
Y Class | 0.0000% to 0.0600% | 1.12% | |
A Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.37% | |
C Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.37% | |
R Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.37% | |
R5 Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 1.17% |
Distribution and Service Fees — The Board of Directors has adopted a separate Master Distribution and Individual Shareholder Services Plan for each of the A Class, C Class and R Class (collectively the plans), pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act. The plans provide that the A Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.25%. The plans provide that the C Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 1.00%, of which 0.25% is paid for individual shareholder services and 0.75% is paid for distribution services. The plans provide that the R Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.50%. The fees are computed and accrued daily based on each class’s daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The fees are used to pay financial intermediaries for distribution and individual shareholder services. Fees incurred under the plans during the period ended June 30, 2019 are detailed in the Statement of Operations.
27
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities and securities sold short, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $208,062,194 and $206,904,277, respectively.
5. Capital Share Transactions
Transactions in shares of the fund were as follows:
Year ended June 30, 2019 | Year ended June 30, 2018 | |||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||
Investor Class/Shares Authorized | 70,000,000 | 70,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 704,735 | $ | 7,814,316 | 906,191 | $ | 10,253,405 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 166,521 | 1,788,434 | — | — | ||||||
Redeemed | (1,920,574 | ) | (20,976,407 | ) | (4,913,854 | ) | (55,483,172 | ) | ||
(1,049,318 | ) | (11,373,657 | ) | (4,007,663 | ) | (45,229,767 | ) | |||
I Class/Shares Authorized | 30,000,000 | 30,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 1,444,629 | 16,160,116 | 4,254,423 | 49,144,474 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 120,860 | 1,330,671 | — | — | ||||||
Redeemed | (1,964,168 | ) | (21,951,558 | ) | (3,617,623 | ) | (42,188,226 | ) | ||
(398,679 | ) | (4,460,771 | ) | 636,800 | 6,956,248 | |||||
Y Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 531,068 | 5,973,794 | 65,935 | 770,788 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 13,196 | 145,291 | — | — | ||||||
Redeemed | (13,755 | ) | (153,091 | ) | (484 | ) | (5,632 | ) | ||
530,509 | 5,965,994 | 65,451 | 765,156 | |||||||
A Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 75,025 | 818,155 | 94,048 | 1,043,367 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 15,992 | 166,638 | — | — | ||||||
Redeemed | (159,265 | ) | (1,713,766 | ) | (203,489 | ) | (2,256,379 | ) | ||
(68,248 | ) | (728,973 | ) | (109,441 | ) | (1,213,012 | ) | |||
C Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 58,746 | 575,762 | 278,923 | 2,846,030 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 25,091 | 237,364 | — | — | ||||||
Redeemed | (330,642 | ) | (3,193,876 | ) | (307,223 | ) | (3,114,851 | ) | ||
(246,805 | ) | (2,380,750 | ) | (28,300 | ) | (268,821 | ) | |||
R Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 21,734 | 224,860 | 34,986 | 375,985 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 12,166 | 122,762 | — | — | ||||||
Redeemed | (57,536 | ) | (596,445 | ) | (118,537 | ) | (1,275,653 | ) | ||
(23,636 | ) | (248,823 | ) | (83,551 | ) | (899,668 | ) | |||
R5 Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 7,859 | 89,105 | 517 | 6,031 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 22 | 247 | — | — | ||||||
Redeemed | (8,325 | ) | (94,237 | ) | (2 | ) | (23 | ) | ||
(444 | ) | (4,885 | ) | 515 | 6,008 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) | (1,256,621 | ) | $ | (13,231,865 | ) | (3,526,189 | ) | $ | (39,883,856 | ) |
28
6. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Air Freight and Logistics | $ | 252,881 | $ | 124,857 | — | |||
Airlines | — | 369,210 | — | |||||
Automobiles | — | 269,171 | — | |||||
Chemicals | 664,994 | 194,310 | — | |||||
Construction and Engineering | 511,244 | 307,520 | — | |||||
Electric Utilities | 115,997 | 559,963 | — | |||||
Energy Equipment and Services | — | 475,362 | — | |||||
Food Products | 887,847 | 484,111 | — | |||||
Gas Utilities | — | 63,244 | — | |||||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies | 2,604,667 | 207,395 | — | |||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure | 1,944,387 | 32,513 | — | |||||
Household Durables | — | 584,756 | — | |||||
Insurance | 1,879,142 | 383,628 | — | |||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services | 1,035,582 | 53,524 | — | |||||
Metals and Mining | 434,216 | 1,566,624 | — | |||||
Multi-Utilities | — | 511,528 | — | |||||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels | 1,624,131 | 1,125,089 | — | |||||
Pharmaceuticals | 570,910 | 468,776 | — | |||||
Professional Services | 1,932,900 | 86,596 | — | |||||
Real Estate Management and Development | — | 109,130 | — | |||||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment | 1,569,535 | 616,656 | — | |||||
Specialty Retail | 1,439,906 | 94,359 | — | |||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals | 249,736 | 49,436 | — | |||||
Other Industries | 31,432,143 | — | — | |||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 4,221 | 698,857 | — | |||||
$ | 49,154,439 | $ | 9,436,615 | — | ||||
29
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Liabilities | ||||||||
Securities Sold Short | ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Chemicals | $ | 1,484,486 | $ | 525,306 | — | |||
Construction and Engineering | 623,669 | 932,919 | — | |||||
Diversified Telecommunication Services | — | 263,446 | — | |||||
Electrical Equipment | 459,635 | 291,888 | — | |||||
Food Products | 2,088,072 | 474,940 | — | |||||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies | 2,621,221 | 320,008 | — | |||||
Health Care Providers and Services | 672,831 | 125,187 | — | |||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure | 3,117,220 | 88,859 | — | |||||
Insurance | 1,239,600 | 797,774 | — | |||||
IT Services | 1,514,435 | 834,550 | — | |||||
Machinery | 1,526,261 | 308,424 | — | |||||
Metals and Mining | 447,361 | 392,751 | — | |||||
Real Estate Management and Development | 1,148,157 | 104,344 | — | |||||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment | 1,179,376 | 613,674 | — | |||||
Software | 640,659 | 444,080 | — | |||||
Specialty Retail | 1,339,250 | 372,200 | — | |||||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods | — | 316,750 | — | |||||
Other Industries | 30,920,321 | — | — | |||||
$ | 51,022,554 | $ | 7,207,100 | — |
7. Risk Factors
The fund is subject to short sales risk. If the market price of a security increases after the fund borrows the security, the fund may suffer a loss when it replaces the borrowed security at the higher price. Any loss will be increased by the amount of compensation, interest or dividends, and transaction costs the fund must pay to the lender of the borrowed security.
The fund's investment strategy utilizes leverage, which can increase market exposure and subject the fund to greater risk and higher volatility.
If the fund is overweighted in a stock or sector, any negative development related to that stock or sector will have a greater impact on the fund than other funds that are not overweighted in that stock or sector.
The fund’s investment process may result in high portfolio turnover, which could mean high transaction costs, affecting both performance and capital gains tax liabilities to investors.
There are certain risks involved in investing in foreign securities. These risks include those resulting from political events (such as civil unrest, national elections and imposition of exchange controls), social and economic events (such as labor strikes and rising inflation), and natural disasters. Securities of foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile. Investing in emerging markets or a significant portion of assets in one country or region may accentuate these risks.
30
8. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | ||||
Distributions Paid From | |||||
Ordinary income | $ | 3,401,104 | — | ||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 404,084 | — |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
The reclassifications, which are primarily due to excise tax distributions, were made to capital $(3,048,205) and distributable earnings $3,048,205.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 54,164,623 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 6,350,988 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (1,924,557 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | 4,426,431 | ||
Gross tax appreciation on securities sold short | 2,053,463 | ||
Gross tax depreciation on securities sold short | (5,198,978 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) on translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | 32 | ||
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) | $ | 1,280,948 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | — | ||
Post-October capital loss deferral | $ | (183,233 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on unsettled short positions.
Loss deferrals represent certain qualified losses that the fund has elected to treat as having been incurred in the following fiscal year for federal income tax purposes.
31
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | ||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Distributions From Net Realized Gains | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (excluding expenses on securities sold short) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | ||||||||||||||
2019 | $11.30 | 0.06 | (0.30) | (0.24) | (0.55) | $10.51 | (2.17)% | 3.13% | 1.38% | 0.53% | 307% | $23,171 | ||
2018 | $11.11 | (0.08) | 0.27 | 0.19 | — | $11.30 | 1.71% | 3.07% | 1.38% | (0.69)% | 289% | $36,778 | ||
2017 | $11.01 | (0.13) | 0.23 | 0.10 | — | $11.11 | 0.91% | 2.92% | 1.38% | (1.17)% | 344% | $80,666 | ||
2016 | $11.12 | (0.14) | 0.03 | (0.11) | — | $11.01 | (0.99)% | 2.93% | 1.40% | (1.25)% | 235% | $84,899 | ||
2015 | $11.24 | (0.16) | 0.04 | (0.12) | — | $11.12 | (1.07)% | 2.91% | 1.38% | (1.42)% | 243% | $57,263 | ||
I Class | ||||||||||||||
2019 | $11.57 | 0.08 | (0.31) | (0.23) | (0.55) | $10.79 | (2.12)% | 2.93% | 1.18% | 0.73% | 307% | $22,672 | ||
2018 | $11.34 | (0.05) | 0.28 | 0.23 | — | $11.57 | 2.03% | 2.87% | 1.18% | (0.49)% | 289% | $28,914 | ||
2017 | $11.22 | (0.11) | 0.23 | 0.12 | — | $11.34 | 1.07% | 2.72% | 1.18% | (0.97)% | 344% | $21,132 | ||
2016 | $11.30 | (0.12) | 0.04 | (0.08) | — | $11.22 | (0.71)% | 2.73% | 1.20% | (1.05)% | 235% | $14,129 | ||
2015 | $11.41 | (0.14) | 0.03 | (0.11) | — | $11.30 | (0.96)% | 2.71% | 1.18% | (1.22)% | 243% | $9,509 | ||
Y Class | ||||||||||||||
2019 | $11.57 | 0.09 | (0.31) | (0.22) | (0.55) | $10.80 | (2.03)% | 2.88% | 1.13% | 0.78% | 307% | $6,441 | ||
2018 | $11.34 | (0.01) | 0.24 | 0.23 | — | $11.57 | 2.03% | 2.82% | 1.13% | (0.44)% | 289% | $762 | ||
2017(3) | $11.47 | (0.02) | (0.11) | (0.13) | — | $11.34 | (1.13)% | 2.67%(4) | 1.13%(4) | (0.64)%(4) | 344%(5) | $5 |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | ||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Distributions From Net Realized Gains | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (excluding expenses on securities sold short) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
A Class | ||||||||||||||
2019 | $11.00 | 0.03 | (0.30) | (0.27) | (0.55) | $10.18 | (2.42)% | 3.38% | 1.63% | 0.28% | 307% | $2,785 | ||
2018 | $10.83 | (0.10) | 0.27 | 0.17 | — | $11.00 | 1.48% | 3.32% | 1.63% | (0.94)% | 289% | $3,757 | ||
2017 | $10.76 | (0.16) | 0.23 | 0.07 | — | $10.83 | 0.65% | 3.17% | 1.63% | (1.42)% | 344% | $4,888 | ||
2016 | $10.90 | (0.17) | 0.03 | (0.14) | — | $10.76 | (1.28)% | 3.18% | 1.65% | (1.50)% | 235% | $11,113 | ||
2015 | $11.04 | (0.19) | 0.05 | (0.14) | — | $10.90 | (1.27)% | 3.16% | 1.63% | (1.67)% | 243% | $18,129 | ||
C Class | ||||||||||||||
2019 | $10.07 | (0.04) | (0.27) | (0.31) | (0.55) | $9.21 | (3.26)% | 4.13% | 2.38% | (0.47)% | 307% | $2,263 | ||
2018 | $10.00 | (0.17) | 0.24 | 0.07 | — | $10.07 | 0.70% | 4.07% | 2.38% | (1.69)% | 289% | $4,960 | ||
2017 | $10.01 | (0.22) | 0.21 | (0.01) | — | $10.00 | (0.10)% | 3.92% | 2.38% | (2.17)% | 344% | $5,207 | ||
2016 | $10.20 | (0.23) | 0.04 | (0.19) | — | $10.01 | (1.86)% | 3.93% | 2.40% | (2.25)% | 235% | $7,182 | ||
2015 | $10.42 | (0.25) | 0.03 | (0.22) | — | $10.20 | (2.11)% | 3.91% | 2.38% | (2.42)% | 243% | $6,413 | ||
R Class | ||||||||||||||
2019 | $10.68 | —(6) | (0.28) | (0.28) | (0.55) | $9.85 | (2.68)% | 3.63% | 1.88% | 0.03% | 307% | $2,133 | ||
2018 | $10.55 | (0.13) | 0.26 | 0.13 | — | $10.68 | 1.23% | 3.57% | 1.88% | (1.19)% | 289% | $2,565 | ||
2017 | $10.51 | (0.18) | 0.22 | 0.04 | — | $10.55 | 0.38% | 3.42% | 1.88% | (1.67)% | 344% | $3,416 | ||
2016 | $10.66 | (0.19) | 0.04 | (0.15) | — | $10.51 | (1.41)% | 3.43% | 1.90% | (1.75)% | 235% | $3,742 | ||
2015 | $10.83 | (0.21) | 0.04 | (0.17) | — | $10.66 | (1.57)% | 3.41% | 1.88% | (1.92)% | 243% | $2,187 |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | ||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Distributions From Net Realized Gains | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (excluding expenses on securities sold short) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
R5 Class | ||||||||||||||
2019 | $11.56 | 0.11 | (0.33) | (0.22) | (0.55) | $10.79 | (2.03)% | 2.93% | 1.18% | 0.73% | 307% | $5 | ||
2018 | $11.34 | (0.04) | 0.26 | 0.22 | — | $11.56 | 1.94% | 2.87% | 1.18% | (0.49)% | 289% | $11 | ||
2017(3) | $11.47 | (0.02) | (0.11) | (0.13) | — | $11.34 | (1.13)% | 2.72%(4) | 1.18%(4) | (0.69)%(4) | 344%(5) | $5 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day and do not reflect applicable sales charges, if any. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
(3) | April 10, 2017 (commencement of sale) through June 30, 2017. |
(4) | Annualized. |
(5) | Portfolio turnover is calculated at the fund level. Percentage indicated was calculated for the year ended June 30, 2017. |
(6) | Per-share amount was less than $0.005. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of AC Alternatives® Equity Market Neutral Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of AC Alternatives® Equity Market Neutral Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
35
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
36
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
37
Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
38
Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
39
Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was above its benchmark for the one-, three-, five-, and ten-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
40
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer universe. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
41
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
42
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
43
Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $663,983, or up to the maximum amount allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
The fund hereby designates $3,048,205 as qualified short-term capital gain distributions for purposes of Internal Revenue Code Section 871 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund hereby designates $404,084, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
44
Notes |
45
Notes |
46
Notes |
47
Notes |
48
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92987 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
Core Equity Plus Fund | |
Investor Class (ACPVX) | |
I Class (ACPKX) | |
A Class (ACPQX) | |
C Class (ACPHX) | |
R Class (ACPWX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
President's Letter | 2 | |
Performance | 3 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Statement of Cash Flows | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
President’s Letter |
Jonathan Thomas
Dear Investor:
Thank you for reviewing this annual report for the period ended June 30, 2019. Annual reports help convey important information about fund returns, including market factors that affected performance during the reporting period. For additional investment and market insights, we encourage you to visit our website, americancentury.com.
Markets Overcame Heightened Volatility
Most broad large- and mid-cap stock indices ended the 12-month period with gains. However, these positive results masked some severe volatility, which led to wide performance swings. For example, the S&P 500 Index returned -6.85% in the first half of the period and 18.54% in the second half, leaving the index up 10.42% for the year. Even more dramatic, the S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index returned -21.91% in the first half of the reporting period, 13.34% in the second half, and -11.49% overall.
Fed’s Flip Fueled Investor Optimism
In the first half, mounting concerns about slowing global economic and earnings growth and Federal Reserve (Fed) policy soured investor sentiment. After raising rates in September, the Fed hiked again in December and delivered a surprisingly hawkish rate-hike outlook that worried investors and fueled a steep sell-off among riskier assets. Meanwhile, the risk-off climate sparked a flight to quality. Treasury yields plunged, triggering a rally among perceived safe-haven assets.
The new year brought a renewed sense of stability to financial markets and a key policy pivot from the Fed. The central bank abruptly and unexpectedly ended its rate-hike campaign and adopted a dovish tone amid moderating global growth and inflation. Additionally, investors’ worst-case fears about growth, trade and corporate earnings eased. Equity valuations appeared attractive, and a rally ensued. At the same time, Treasury yields continued to fall on moderating global growth data, muted inflation and accommodative central bank policy, which supported continued gains for interest rate-sensitive assets.
Looking ahead, we expect volatility to remain a formidable factor as investors react to global growth and trade trends, central bank policy and geopolitical developments. We believe this scenario underscores the importance of using professionally managed portfolios in pursuit of your investment goals. We appreciate your continued trust and confidence in us.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Thomas
President and Chief Executive Officer
American Century Investments
2
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | |||||
Average Annual Returns | |||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | Since Inception | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | ACPVX | 3.81% | 7.07% | 11.84% | 10/31/11 |
S&P 500 Index | — | 10.42% | 10.71% | 14.15% | — |
I Class | ACPKX | 4.06% | 7.29% | 12.07% | 10/31/11 |
A Class | ACPQX | 10/31/11 | |||
No sales charge | 3.54% | 6.81% | 11.56% | ||
With sales charge | -2.40% | 5.55% | 10.70% | ||
C Class | ACPHX | 2.76% | 6.00% | 10.72% | 10/31/11 |
R Class | ACPWX | 3.31% | 6.53% | 11.28% | 10/31/11 |
Sales charges include initial sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSCs), as applicable. A Class shares have a 5.75% maximum initial sales charge and may be subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. C Class shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase are subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. The SEC requires that mutual funds provide performance information net of maximum sales charges in all cases where charges could be applied.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
3
Growth of $10,000 Over Life of Class |
$10,000 investment made October 31, 2011 |
Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure. |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $23,584 | |
S&P 500 Index — $27,585 | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | ||||
Investor Class | I Class | A Class | C Class | R Class |
1.85% | 1.65% | 2.10% | 2.85% | 2.35% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
4
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Claudia Musat and Steven Rossi
Performance Summary
Core Equity Plus returned 3.81%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, compared with the 10.42% return of its benchmark, the S&P 500 Index.
Core Equity Plus advanced during the fiscal year, but underperformed its benchmark, the S&P 500 Index. The fund is managed to have a 100% net exposure to the equity market by investing approximately 130% of its net assets in long positions, while 30% of its net assets are sold short. The proceeds from the securities sold short are used to fund the purchase of the additional 30% of long positions.
The portfolio underperformed the benchmark by a wide margin as a result of disappointing stock selection decisions. Stock choices in the consumer discretionary, consumer staples and materials sectors detracted the most. On a positive note, positioning in the information technology and financials sectors benefited relative performance.
Stock Choices Across Several Sectors Detracted from Relative Returns
Within consumer discretionary, positioning within the hotels, restaurants and leisure industry was a leading detractor. Security selection within multiline retail also weighed on results. In the textiles, apparel and luxury goods industry, long positions in Capri Holdings and Tapestry were two of the largest individual detractors from performance. The stocks came under pressure during the period in part due to investor concern over slowing consumer demand. Both companies’ factor scores decreased during the period, and we closed the positions.
In consumer staples, a long position in Edgewell Personal Care was among the top detractors from performance. The stock price slid during the period after an acquisition announcement. We exited the stock. Security selection within the beverages industry and positioning within household products both detracted. The materials sector also provided a headwind to returns. Stock choices within the chemicals industry hurt relative results, as did positioning among containers and packaging companies.
Other notable detractors included a long position in Continental Resources. The stock fell early in the period amid oil price volatility. The stock maintains above-average scores for sentiment, quality and valuation factors. A long position in energy company Halliburton also detracted. Its factor scores deteriorated during the period, and we exited our position.
Information Technology and Financials Were Additive
Security choices in the software industry were a primary driver of returns for the information technology sector. A short position in 2U was one of the top individual performers for the year. The online education company’s stock fell on the back of reduced enrollment and falling revenue. The company earns poor scores for sentiment and valuation. We have closed the position. A long position in Cadence Design Systems was also among the leading contributors. The company maintains high scores across all four factors of our model. Selection within electronic equipment, instruments and components also bolstered returns, as did positioning within the communications equipment industry.
*All fund returns referenced in this commentary are for Investor Class shares. Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure; when Investor Class performance exceeds that of the fund’s benchmark, other share classes may not. See page 3 for returns for all share classes.
5
Within the financials sector, security selection within banks bolstered results. Short positions in companies such as Sterling Bancorp, Home BancShares and First Financial Bancorp benefited returns as these companies struggled during the period amid slowing economic growth and falling interest rates. We have closed the positions in Sterling Bancorp and Home BancShares. Among other notable individual contributors, a long position in outdoor clothing and shoe company Deckers Outdoor was beneficial. The company beat earnings estimates and raised guidance several times throughout the 12 months. The retailer maintains above-average scores across all four model factors. A long holding in specialty retail company AutoZone was among the top individual contributors. The stock of the automotive parts retailer rose during the period and maintains high scores within our model for sentiment and quality.
A Look Ahead
Our disciplined, objective and systematic investment strategy is designed to take advantage of opportunities at the individual company level. We believe this approach is the most powerful way to capitalize on market inefficiencies that lead to the mispricing of individual stocks. Our strategy is designed to provide investors with well-diversified and risk-controlled exposure to broad U.S. equities. As such, we do not seek significant deviations in sector weightings versus the S&P 500 Index. Nevertheless, we can point to select sectors and industries where we are finding more or less investment opportunity.
At period-end, information technology was the most overweight sector. According to our factor model, the software and communications equipment industries offer some of the best opportunities in the current environment. Health care ended the period as the second-largest relative overweight. Based on our factor model, we believe there are significant opportunities for growth in the health care equipment and supplies industry. Conversely, our largest underweight at period-end was in the consumer staples sector, where our underweight is driven by a lower exposure to the household products industry. In addition, we are underweight consumer discretionary and utilities companies, where our model shows a comparative lack of opportunity.
6
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Long Holdings | % of net assets |
Apple, Inc. | 4.08% |
Amazon.com, Inc. | 4.01% |
Microsoft Corp. | 3.38% |
Alphabet, Inc., Class A | 3.27% |
Facebook, Inc., Class A | 2.61% |
JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 2.33% |
Visa, Inc., Class A | 1.90% |
Cisco Systems, Inc. | 1.90% |
Bank of America Corp. | 1.89% |
Johnson & Johnson | 1.73% |
Top Five Short Holdings | % of net assets |
Graphic Packaging Holding Co. | (0.86)% |
Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc. | (0.82)% |
First Solar, Inc. | (0.81)% |
Sotheby's | (0.80)% |
Leggett & Platt, Inc. | (0.79)% |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Common Stocks | 128.1% |
Common Stocks Sold Short | (29.9)% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 1.8% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | —* |
*Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets.
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Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
If you hold Investor Class shares of any American Century Investments fund, or I Class shares of the American Century Diversified Bond Fund, in an American Century Investments account (i.e., not a financial intermediary or retirement plan account), American Century Investments may charge you a $12.50 semiannual account maintenance fee if the value of those shares is less than $10,000. We will redeem shares automatically in one of your accounts to pay the $12.50 fee. In determining your total eligible investment amount, we will include your investments in all personal accounts (including American Century Investments Brokerage accounts) registered under your Social Security number. Personal accounts include individual accounts, joint accounts, UGMA/UTMA accounts, personal trusts, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and IRAs (including traditional, Roth, Rollover, SEP-, SARSEP- and SIMPLE-IRAs), and certain other retirement accounts. If you have only business, business retirement, employer-sponsored or American Century Investments Brokerage accounts, you are currently not subject to this fee. If you are subject to the Account Maintenance Fee, your account value could be reduced by the fee amount.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
8
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,139.40 | $10.45 | 1.97% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,141.40 | $9.40 | 1.77% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,137.60 | $11.77 | 2.22% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,134.10 | $15.72 | 2.97% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,136.50 | $13.08 | 2.47% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,015.03 | $9.84 | 1.97% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,016.02 | $8.85 | 1.77% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,013.79 | $11.08 | 2.22% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,010.07 | $14.80 | 2.97% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,012.55 | $12.33 | 2.47% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
9
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 128.1% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — 1.9% | ||||
Boeing Co. (The) | 451 | $ | 164,168 | |
Curtiss-Wright Corp. | 3,858 | 490,468 | ||
Hexcel Corp. | 12,237 | 989,729 | ||
L3 Technologies, Inc. | 549 | 134,598 | ||
Mercury Systems, Inc.(1) | 18,222 | 1,281,918 | ||
Raytheon Co. | 1,079 | 187,616 | ||
3,248,497 | ||||
Air Freight and Logistics — 0.6% | ||||
CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc. | 11,966 | 1,009,332 | ||
Banks — 11.4% | ||||
Bank of America Corp.(2) | 110,682 | 3,209,778 | ||
BB&T Corp. | 35,736 | 1,755,710 | ||
Citigroup, Inc. | 5,092 | 356,593 | ||
Comerica, Inc. | 19,153 | 1,391,274 | ||
East West Bancorp, Inc. | 11,747 | 549,407 | ||
Fifth Third Bancorp | 55,008 | 1,534,723 | ||
First Citizens BancShares, Inc., Class A | 1,977 | 890,184 | ||
Huntington Bancshares, Inc.(2) | 101,777 | 1,406,558 | ||
JPMorgan Chase & Co.(2) | 35,419 | 3,959,844 | ||
Popular, Inc. | 15,364 | 833,343 | ||
SunTrust Banks, Inc. | 13,831 | 869,278 | ||
Wells Fargo & Co.(2) | 54,892 | 2,597,490 | ||
19,354,182 | ||||
Beverages — 1.3% | ||||
Coca-Cola Co. (The)(2) | 23,649 | 1,204,207 | ||
PepsiCo, Inc. | 7,105 | 931,679 | ||
2,135,886 | ||||
Biotechnology — 3.5% | ||||
AbbVie, Inc. | 15,608 | 1,135,014 | ||
Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 4,290 | 561,904 | ||
Amgen, Inc. | 6,366 | 1,173,127 | ||
Biogen, Inc.(1) | 3,094 | 723,594 | ||
Celgene Corp.(1) | 9,127 | 843,700 | ||
Genomic Health, Inc.(1) | 7,540 | 438,602 | ||
Gilead Sciences, Inc. | 3,408 | 230,244 | ||
Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 10,491 | 180,235 | ||
Incyte Corp.(1) | 6,888 | 585,204 | ||
5,871,624 | ||||
Building Products — 1.8% | ||||
Johnson Controls International plc | 40,367 | 1,667,561 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
Masco Corp. | 33,398 | $ | 1,310,537 | |
2,978,098 | ||||
Capital Markets — 3.2% | ||||
Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc., Class A | 49,239 | 1,355,057 | ||
BGC Partners, Inc., Class A | 74,774 | 391,068 | ||
Evercore, Inc., Class A | 13,883 | 1,229,617 | ||
FactSet Research Systems, Inc. | 1,409 | 403,763 | ||
LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. | 17,937 | 1,463,121 | ||
MSCI, Inc. | 2,178 | 520,085 | ||
5,362,711 | ||||
Chemicals — 0.4% | ||||
NewMarket Corp. | 1,706 | 684,004 | ||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 2.4% | ||||
Clean Harbors, Inc.(1) | 12,964 | 921,740 | ||
Republic Services, Inc. | 17,390 | 1,506,670 | ||
Waste Management, Inc. | 14,567 | 1,680,595 | ||
4,109,005 | ||||
Communications Equipment — 3.1% | ||||
Ciena Corp.(1) | 27,715 | 1,139,918 | ||
Cisco Systems, Inc.(2) | 59,175 | 3,238,648 | ||
Juniper Networks, Inc. | 9,697 | 258,231 | ||
Motorola Solutions, Inc. | 3,702 | 617,234 | ||
5,254,031 | ||||
Construction and Engineering — 0.1% | ||||
EMCOR Group, Inc. | 1,832 | 161,399 | ||
Consumer Finance — 2.8% | ||||
American Express Co. | 5,699 | 703,485 | ||
Credit Acceptance Corp.(1) | 2,536 | 1,226,993 | ||
Discover Financial Services | 22,512 | 1,746,706 | ||
Green Dot Corp., Class A(1) | 2,254 | 110,221 | ||
Synchrony Financial | 28,226 | 978,595 | ||
4,766,000 | ||||
Containers and Packaging — 0.2% | ||||
Packaging Corp. of America | 2,983 | 284,340 | ||
Diversified Financial Services — 0.9% | ||||
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B(1) | 7,383 | 1,573,834 | ||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 2.3% | ||||
AT&T, Inc. | 8,906 | 298,440 | ||
CenturyLink, Inc. | 63,422 | 745,843 | ||
Verizon Communications, Inc.(2) | 51,032 | 2,915,458 | ||
3,959,741 | ||||
Electric Utilities — 0.8% | ||||
ALLETE, Inc. | 9,118 | 758,709 | ||
IDACORP, Inc. | 6,459 | 648,677 | ||
1,407,386 | ||||
Electrical Equipment — 0.2% | ||||
Rockwell Automation, Inc. | 2,329 | 381,560 |
11
Shares | Value | |||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 2.0% | ||||
FLIR Systems, Inc. | 14,417 | $ | 779,960 | |
Keysight Technologies, Inc.(1) | 11,751 | 1,055,357 | ||
National Instruments Corp. | 18,617 | 781,728 | ||
Zebra Technologies Corp., Class A(1) | 4,147 | 868,755 | ||
3,485,800 | ||||
Energy Equipment and Services — 0.5% | ||||
Patterson-UTI Energy, Inc. | 73,821 | 849,680 | ||
Entertainment — 3.1% | ||||
Activision Blizzard, Inc. | 32,996 | 1,557,411 | ||
Electronic Arts, Inc.(1) | 15,554 | 1,574,998 | ||
Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.(1) | 14,621 | 1,659,922 | ||
Walt Disney Co. (The) | 3,089 | 431,348 | ||
5,223,679 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 3.4% | ||||
American Homes 4 Rent, Class A | 33,986 | 826,200 | ||
CareTrust REIT, Inc. | 53,686 | 1,276,653 | ||
GEO Group, Inc. (The) | 64,166 | 1,348,128 | ||
Healthcare Trust of America, Inc., Class A | 14,719 | 403,742 | ||
Life Storage, Inc. | 11,441 | 1,087,810 | ||
Regency Centers Corp. | 6,526 | 435,545 | ||
Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc. | 32,209 | 441,586 | ||
5,819,664 | ||||
Food and Staples Retailing — 0.7% | ||||
Performance Food Group Co.(1) | 29,732 | 1,190,172 | ||
Food Products — 2.5% | ||||
Campbell Soup Co. | 30,984 | 1,241,529 | ||
General Mills, Inc. | 29,034 | 1,524,866 | ||
Hershey Co. (The) | 11,698 | 1,567,883 | ||
4,334,278 | ||||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 6.5% | ||||
ABIOMED, Inc.(1) | 326 | 84,920 | ||
Danaher Corp. | 10,594 | 1,514,094 | ||
Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. | 12,460 | 1,303,565 | ||
Hologic, Inc.(1) | 29,134 | 1,399,015 | ||
Integer Holdings Corp.(1) | 17,300 | 1,451,816 | ||
Masimo Corp.(1) | 1,313 | 195,401 | ||
Medtronic plc | 23,379 | 2,276,881 | ||
NuVasive, Inc.(1) | 24,342 | 1,424,981 | ||
Stryker Corp. | 6,932 | 1,425,080 | ||
11,075,753 | ||||
Health Care Providers and Services — 1.4% | ||||
Amedisys, Inc.(1) | 9,684 | 1,175,735 | ||
Chemed Corp. | 1,292 | 466,205 | ||
Ensign Group, Inc. (The) | 2,147 | 122,207 | ||
HealthEquity, Inc.(1) | 4,356 | 284,882 |
12
Shares | Value | |||
UnitedHealth Group, Inc. | 1,147 | $ | 279,880 | |
2,328,909 | ||||
Health Care Technology — 0.9% | ||||
Omnicell, Inc.(1) | 6,914 | 594,811 | ||
Veeva Systems, Inc., Class A(1) | 5,668 | 918,840 | ||
1,513,651 | ||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 2.2% | ||||
Cheesecake Factory, Inc. (The) | 8,295 | 362,657 | ||
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.(1) | 251 | 183,953 | ||
Darden Restaurants, Inc. | 10,588 | 1,288,877 | ||
Starbucks Corp.(2) | 23,455 | 1,966,233 | ||
3,801,720 | ||||
Household Durables — 0.1% | ||||
Garmin Ltd. | 1,400 | 111,720 | ||
Household Products — 0.2% | ||||
Procter & Gamble Co. (The) | 2,425 | 265,901 | ||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.3% | ||||
NRG Energy, Inc. | 14,525 | 510,118 | ||
Industrial Conglomerates — 0.4% | ||||
Honeywell International, Inc. | 3,702 | 646,332 | ||
Insurance — 2.0% | ||||
Mercury General Corp. | 22,018 | 1,376,125 | ||
MetLife, Inc. | 4,824 | 239,608 | ||
Progressive Corp. (The)(2) | 22,595 | 1,806,018 | ||
3,421,751 | ||||
Interactive Media and Services — 6.2% | ||||
Alphabet, Inc., Class A(1)(2) | 5,134 | 5,559,095 | ||
Facebook, Inc., Class A(1)(2) | 23,032 | 4,445,176 | ||
Snap, Inc., Class A(1) | 40,158 | 574,260 | ||
10,578,531 | ||||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 5.0% | ||||
Amazon.com, Inc.(1)(2) | 3,604 | 6,824,643 | ||
eBay, Inc. | 44,703 | 1,765,768 | ||
8,590,411 | ||||
IT Services — 5.0% | ||||
Akamai Technologies, Inc.(1) | 16,675 | 1,336,334 | ||
Amdocs Ltd. | 12,541 | 778,671 | ||
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 6,470 | 1,711,509 | ||
PayPal Holdings, Inc.(1) | 8,062 | 922,777 | ||
Square, Inc., Class A(1) | 7,990 | 579,515 | ||
Visa, Inc., Class A(2) | 18,671 | 3,240,352 | ||
8,569,158 | ||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 3.3% | ||||
Agilent Technologies, Inc. | 13,723 | 1,024,696 | ||
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Class A(1) | 1,329 | 415,432 | ||
Illumina, Inc.(1) | 4,992 | 1,837,805 |
13
Shares | Value | |||
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.(2) | 8,094 | $ | 2,377,046 | |
5,654,979 | ||||
Machinery — 2.6% | ||||
Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. | 27,442 | 1,271,937 | ||
Cummins, Inc. | 2,431 | 416,528 | ||
Snap-on, Inc. | 9,152 | 1,515,937 | ||
Woodward, Inc. | 11,181 | 1,265,242 | ||
4,469,644 | ||||
Media — 0.4% | ||||
Comcast Corp., Class A | 17,817 | 753,303 | ||
Metals and Mining — 0.8% | ||||
Steel Dynamics, Inc. | 46,782 | 1,412,816 | ||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 6.2% | ||||
Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. | 54,863 | 1,259,655 | ||
Chevron Corp. | 12,641 | 1,573,046 | ||
ConocoPhillips | 1,827 | 111,447 | ||
Continental Resources, Inc.(1) | 8,777 | 369,424 | ||
CVR Energy, Inc. | 26,328 | 1,316,137 | ||
Delek US Holdings, Inc. | 32,866 | 1,331,730 | ||
EOG Resources, Inc. | 10,113 | 942,127 | ||
Exxon Mobil Corp. | 12,356 | 946,840 | ||
HollyFrontier Corp. | 26,953 | 1,247,385 | ||
Phillips 66 | 16,061 | 1,502,346 | ||
10,600,137 | ||||
Paper and Forest Products — 0.7% | ||||
Domtar Corp. | 25,229 | 1,123,447 | ||
Pharmaceuticals — 5.7% | ||||
Allergan plc | 4,822 | 807,348 | ||
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. | 11,127 | 504,609 | ||
Eli Lilly & Co. | 6,430 | 712,380 | ||
Horizon Therapeutics plc(1) | 16,797 | 404,136 | ||
Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc(1) | 3,081 | 439,227 | ||
Johnson & Johnson(2) | 21,174 | 2,949,115 | ||
Merck & Co., Inc. | 22,646 | 1,898,867 | ||
Pfizer, Inc. | 27,763 | 1,202,693 | ||
Zoetis, Inc. | 7,109 | 806,800 | ||
9,725,175 | ||||
Professional Services — 1.9% | ||||
ASGN, Inc.(1) | 3,946 | 239,127 | ||
CoStar Group, Inc.(1) | 2,483 | 1,375,731 | ||
Korn Ferry | 26,423 | 1,058,770 | ||
Robert Half International, Inc. | 9,423 | 537,205 | ||
3,210,833 | ||||
Road and Rail — 1.2% | ||||
CSX Corp. | 21,192 | 1,639,625 | ||
Norfolk Southern Corp. | 1,592 | 317,333 | ||
1,956,958 |
14
Shares | Value | |||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 4.2% | ||||
Broadcom, Inc.(2) | 7,170 | $ | 2,063,956 | |
Cirrus Logic, Inc.(1) | 21,039 | 919,404 | ||
Intel Corp. | 30,818 | 1,475,258 | ||
Qorvo, Inc.(1) | 9,326 | 621,205 | ||
QUALCOMM, Inc. | 8,309 | 632,065 | ||
Xilinx, Inc. | 11,816 | 1,393,343 | ||
7,105,231 | ||||
Software — 8.8% | ||||
Adobe, Inc.(1) | 3,909 | 1,151,787 | ||
Autodesk, Inc.(1) | 2,468 | 402,037 | ||
Cadence Design Systems, Inc.(1) | 23,631 | 1,673,311 | ||
Intuit, Inc.(2) | 7,309 | 1,910,061 | ||
LogMeIn, Inc. | 7,170 | 528,286 | ||
Microsoft Corp.(2) | 42,876 | 5,743,669 | ||
Oracle Corp. (New York) | 30,958 | 1,763,677 | ||
Proofpoint, Inc.(1) | 4,024 | 483,886 | ||
Teradata Corp.(1) | 25,510 | 914,533 | ||
VMware, Inc., Class A | 2,352 | 393,278 | ||
14,964,525 | ||||
Specialty Retail — 3.4% | ||||
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. | 13,285 | 224,517 | ||
AutoZone, Inc.(1) | 1,286 | 1,413,918 | ||
Foot Locker, Inc. | 20,563 | 862,001 | ||
L Brands, Inc. | 5,004 | 130,604 | ||
Murphy USA, Inc.(1) | 15,592 | 1,310,196 | ||
O'Reilly Automotive, Inc.(1) | 2,809 | 1,037,420 | ||
Ulta Beauty, Inc.(1) | 2,330 | 808,254 | ||
5,786,910 | ||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals — 4.4% | ||||
Apple, Inc.(2) | 35,119 | 6,950,752 | ||
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co. | 32,405 | 484,455 | ||
7,435,207 | ||||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 2.2% | ||||
Deckers Outdoor Corp.(1) | 8,186 | 1,440,490 | ||
NIKE, Inc., Class B(2) | 23,577 | 1,979,289 | ||
Ralph Lauren Corp. | 2,803 | 318,393 | ||
3,738,172 | ||||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — 0.8% | ||||
Essent Group Ltd.(1) | 27,379 | 1,286,539 | ||
Trading Companies and Distributors — 0.7% | ||||
HD Supply Holdings, Inc.(1) | 31,546 | 1,270,673 | ||
Transportation Infrastructure — 0.3% | ||||
Macquarie Infrastructure Corp. | 12,857 | 521,223 | ||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 1.2% | ||||
Shenandoah Telecommunications Co. | 29,982 | 1,154,907 | ||
Telephone & Data Systems, Inc. | 27,429 | 833,842 |
15
Shares | Value | |||
United States Cellular Corp.(1) | 1,777 | $ | 79,378 | |
2,068,127 | ||||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $173,692,612) | 217,942,757 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 1.8% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $2,704,927), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $2,656,284) | 2,655,786 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.375%, 7/15/27, valued at $517,373), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $504,053) | 504,000 | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 2,113 | 2,113 | ||
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $3,161,899) | 3,161,899 | |||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES BEFORE SECURITIES SOLD SHORT — 129.9% (Cost $176,854,511) | 221,104,656 | |||
COMMON STOCKS SOLD SHORT — (29.9)% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — (0.1)% | ||||
BWX Technologies, Inc. | (3,216) | (167,554 | ) | |
Auto Components — (0.4)% | ||||
LCI Industries | (7,774) | (699,660 | ) | |
Banks — (4.9)% | ||||
Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp. | (27,146) | (959,068 | ) | |
BOK Financial Corp. | (8,925) | (673,659 | ) | |
Cadence BanCorp | (27,192) | (565,594 | ) | |
First Financial Bancorp | (39,779) | (963,447 | ) | |
Fulton Financial Corp. | (75,082) | (1,229,092 | ) | |
Old National Bancorp | (74,348) | (1,233,433 | ) | |
Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc. | (24,203) | (1,391,189 | ) | |
United Bankshares, Inc. | (35,708) | (1,324,410 | ) | |
(8,339,892 | ) | |||
Beverages — (0.5)% | ||||
Brown-Forman Corp., Class B | (14,940) | (828,124 | ) | |
Biotechnology — (0.9)% | ||||
Global Blood Therapeutics, Inc. | (7,083) | (372,566 | ) | |
Madrigal Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (3,395) | (355,830 | ) | |
Sage Therapeutics, Inc. | (2,065) | (378,081 | ) | |
Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc. | (3,335) | (506,753 | ) | |
(1,613,230 | ) | |||
Building Products — (0.5)% | ||||
Trex Co., Inc. | (12,378) | (887,503 | ) | |
Capital Markets — (0.5)% | ||||
Ares Management Corp., Class A | (15,343) | (401,526 | ) | |
KKR & Co., Inc., Class A | (16,265) | (411,017 | ) | |
(812,543 | ) | |||
Commercial Services and Supplies — (0.2)% | ||||
Healthcare Services Group, Inc. | (10,112) | (306,596 | ) | |
16
Shares | Value | |||
Stericycle, Inc. | (2,385) | $ | (113,884 | ) |
(420,480 | ) | |||
Construction and Engineering — (0.7)% | ||||
Granite Construction, Inc. | (25,684) | (1,237,455 | ) | |
Consumer Finance — (0.3)% | ||||
SLM Corp. | (59,487) | (578,214 | ) | |
Containers and Packaging — (0.9)% | ||||
Graphic Packaging Holding Co. | (104,213) | (1,456,898 | ) | |
Distributors — (0.3)% | ||||
LKQ Corp. | (22,322) | (593,988 | ) | |
Diversified Consumer Services — (0.9)% | ||||
Laureate Education, Inc., Class A | (5,984) | (94,008 | ) | |
Sotheby's | (23,398) | (1,360,126 | ) | |
(1,454,134 | ) | |||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — (1.6)% | ||||
Amphenol Corp., Class A | (1,980) | (189,961 | ) | |
Arrow Electronics, Inc. | (12,295) | (876,265 | ) | |
Cognex Corp. | (8,358) | (401,017 | ) | |
IPG Photonics Corp. | (8,649) | (1,334,108 | ) | |
(2,801,351 | ) | |||
Energy Equipment and Services — (0.5)% | ||||
McDermott International, Inc. | (91,667) | (885,503 | ) | |
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — (1.9)% | ||||
Avanos Medical, Inc.(1) | (27,986) | (1,220,470 | ) | |
Cantel Medical Corp. | (6,193) | (499,404 | ) | |
Neogen Corp. | (2,876) | (178,628 | ) | |
Wright Medical Group NV | (41,920) | (1,250,054 | ) | |
(3,148,556 | ) | |||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — (1.8)% | ||||
Churchill Downs, Inc. | (8,541) | (982,813 | ) | |
Domino's Pizza, Inc. | (718) | (199,805 | ) | |
Eldorado Resorts, Inc. | (8,252) | (380,169 | ) | |
Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corp. | (8,790) | (847,356 | ) | |
Wynn Resorts Ltd. | (4,915) | (609,411 | ) | |
(3,019,554 | ) | |||
Household Durables — (1.2)% | ||||
Leggett & Platt, Inc. | (35,048) | (1,344,792 | ) | |
Mohawk Industries, Inc. | (4,990) | (735,875 | ) | |
(2,080,667 | ) | |||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — (0.3)% | ||||
Ormat Technologies, Inc. | (8,006) | (507,500 | ) | |
Insurance — (0.5)% | ||||
WR Berkley Corp. | (12,477) | (822,609 | ) | |
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — (0.4)% | ||||
Wayfair, Inc., Class A | (4,247) | (620,062 | ) | |
IT Services — (0.7)% | ||||
Twilio, Inc., Class A | (8,538) | (1,164,156 | ) |
17
Shares | Value | |||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — (0.7)% | ||||
Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. | (8,911) | $ | (1,264,471 | ) |
Machinery — (0.8)% | ||||
Donaldson Co., Inc. | (19,820) | (1,008,045 | ) | |
Welbilt, Inc.(1) | (19,852) | (331,529 | ) | |
(1,339,574 | ) | |||
Media — (0.3)% | ||||
New York Times Co. (The), Class A | (16,611) | (541,851 | ) | |
Metals and Mining — (0.1)% | ||||
United States Steel Corp. | (7,099) | (108,686 | ) | |
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — (0.1)% | ||||
AGNC Investment Corp. | (6,336) | (106,572 | ) | |
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — (1.6)% | ||||
Diamondback Energy, Inc. | (1,047) | (114,091 | ) | |
Matador Resources Co. | (49,560) | (985,253 | ) | |
Noble Energy, Inc. | (8,884) | (199,002 | ) | |
Targa Resources Corp. | (25,635) | (1,006,430 | ) | |
Williams Cos., Inc. (The) | (15,150) | (424,806 | ) | |
(2,729,582 | ) | |||
Pharmaceuticals — (0.7)% | ||||
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (8,696) | (256,967 | ) | |
Catalent, Inc. | (9,498) | (514,887 | ) | |
Reata Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Class A | (4,907) | (462,975 | ) | |
(1,234,829 | ) | |||
Professional Services — (0.4)% | ||||
Equifax, Inc. | (4,424) | (598,302 | ) | |
Real Estate Management and Development — (1.1)% | ||||
Howard Hughes Corp. (The) | (10,069) | (1,246,945 | ) | |
Kennedy-Wilson Holdings, Inc. | (32,876) | (676,259 | ) | |
(1,923,204 | ) | |||
Road and Rail — (0.7)% | ||||
AMERCO | (3,090) | (1,169,719 | ) | |
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — (0.9)% | ||||
Brooks Automation, Inc. | (4,711) | (182,551 | ) | |
First Solar, Inc. | (20,993) | (1,378,820 | ) | |
(1,561,371 | ) | |||
Software — (0.1)% | ||||
Trade Desk, Inc. (The), Class A | (617) | (140,540 | ) | |
Specialty Retail — (0.8)% | ||||
Burlington Stores, Inc. | (2,499) | (425,205 | ) | |
Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc., Class A | (7,557) | (316,638 | ) | |
Monro, Inc. | (5,800) | (494,740 | ) | |
Tiffany & Co. | (1,899) | (177,822 | ) | |
(1,414,405 | ) | |||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — (0.8)% | ||||
TFS Financial Corp. | (73,789) | (1,333,367 | ) |
18
Shares | Value | |||
Trading Companies and Distributors — (0.3)% | ||||
GATX Corp. | (5,758) | $ | (456,552 | ) |
Water Utilities — (0.5)% | ||||
Aqua America, Inc. | (20,959) | (867,074 | ) | |
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS SOLD SHORT (Proceeds $48,628,978) | (50,929,732 | ) | ||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES† | (4,554 | ) | ||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 170,170,370 |
FUTURES CONTRACTS PURCHASED | |||||||||||
Reference Entity | Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount | Underlying Contract Value | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||
S&P 500 E-Mini | 10 | September 2019 | $ | 500 | $ | 1,472,100 | $ | 24,609 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
† | Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets. |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
(2) | Security, or a portion thereof, has been pledged at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements on securities sold short. At the period end, the aggregate value of securities pledged was $63,157,988. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
19
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $176,854,511) | $ | 221,104,656 | |
Deposits with broker for futures contracts | 63,000 | ||
Receivable for capital shares sold | 1,983 | ||
Receivable for variation margin on futures contracts | 6,650 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 177,393 | ||
221,353,682 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Securities sold short, at value (proceeds of $48,628,978) | 50,929,732 | ||
Disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 282 | ||
Accrued management fees | 177,516 | ||
Distribution and service fees payable | 354 | ||
Dividend expense payable on securities sold short | 75,428 | ||
51,183,312 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 170,170,370 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 123,419,956 | |
Distributable earnings | 46,750,414 | ||
$ | 170,170,370 |
Net Assets | Shares Outstanding | Net Asset Value Per Share | ||||
Investor Class, $0.01 Par Value | $169,173,370 | 11,626,570 | $14.55 | |||
I Class, $0.01 Par Value | $5,499 | 378 | $14.55 | |||
A Class, $0.01 Par Value | $541,743 | 37,304 | $14.52* | |||
C Class, $0.01 Par Value | $159,482 | 11,431 | $13.95 | |||
R Class, $0.01 Par Value | $290,276 | 20,145 | $14.41 |
*Maximum offering price $15.41 (net asset value divided by 0.9425).
See Notes to Financial Statements.
20
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $895) | $ | 4,004,064 | |
Interest | 50,278 | ||
4,054,342 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Dividend expense on securities sold short | 759,252 | ||
Fees and charges on borrowings for securities sold short | 394,769 | ||
Management fees | 2,337,142 | ||
Distribution and service fees: | |||
A Class | 1,493 | ||
C Class | 1,595 | ||
R Class | 1,346 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 12,822 | ||
Other expenses | 674 | ||
3,509,093 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 545,249 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | 13,987,906 | ||
Securities sold short transactions | (697,599 | ) | |
Futures contract transactions | (714,850 | ) | |
12,575,457 | |||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments | (7,071,209 | ) | |
Securities sold short | (645,016 | ) | |
Futures contracts | 24,609 | ||
(7,691,616 | ) | ||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 4,883,841 | ||
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | 5,429,090 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
21
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 545,249 | $ | 916,676 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | 12,575,457 | 9,483,593 | ||||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (7,691,616 | ) | 13,495,201 | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 5,429,090 | 23,895,470 | ||||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings:(1) | ||||||
Investor Class | (16,145,698 | ) | (7,104,528 | ) | ||
I Class | (525 | ) | (1,539 | ) | ||
A Class | (63,288 | ) | (17,901 | ) | ||
C Class | (16,143 | ) | (8,914 | ) | ||
R Class | (27,810 | ) | (7,443 | ) | ||
Decrease in net assets from distributions | (16,253,464 | ) | (7,140,325 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions (Note 5) | (18,300,037 | ) | 3,279,313 | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (29,124,411 | ) | 20,034,458 | |||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 199,294,781 | 179,260,323 | ||||
End of period | $ | 170,170,370 | $ | 199,294,781 | ||
(1) | Prior period presentation has been updated to reflect the current period combination of distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains. Distributions from net investment income were $(859,233), $(129), $(1,208) and $(136) for Investor Class, I Class, A Class and R Class, respectively. Distributions from net realized gains were $(6,245,295), $(1,410), $(16,693), $(8,914) and $(7,307) for Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class and R Class, respectively. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
22
Statement of Cash Flows |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Cash Flows From (Used In) Operating Activities | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | $ | 5,429,090 | |
Adjustments to reconcile net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations to net cash from (used in) operating activities: | |||
Purchases of investment securities | (216,090,625 | ) | |
Proceeds from investments sold | 261,866,766 | ||
Purchases to cover securities sold short | (69,627,560 | ) | |
Proceeds from securities sold short | 60,122,727 | ||
Proceeds from (payments on) futures contracts | (690,241 | ) | |
(Increase) decrease in short-term investments | (228,069 | ) | |
(Increase) decrease in deposits with broker for futures contracts | (63,000 | ) | |
(Increase) decrease in receivable for investments sold | 9,658,053 | ||
(Increase) decrease in dividends and interest receivable | 10,956 | ||
(Increase) decrease in receivable for variation margin on futures contracts | (6,650 | ) | |
Increase (decrease) in payable for investments purchased | (10,904,885 | ) | |
Increase (decrease) in accrued management fees | (38,055 | ) | |
Increase (decrease) in distribution and service fees payable | (93 | ) | |
Increase (decrease) in dividend expense payable on securities sold short | 27,582 | ||
Increase (decrease) in fees and charges payable on borrowings for securities sold short | (49,203 | ) | |
Net realized (gain) loss on investment transactions | (13,987,906 | ) | |
Net realized (gain) loss on securities sold short transactions | 697,599 | ||
Net realized (gain) loss on futures contract transactions | 714,850 | ||
Change in net unrealized (appreciation) depreciation on investments | 7,071,209 | ||
Change in net unrealized (appreciation) depreciation on securities sold short | 645,016 | ||
Change in net unrealized (appreciation) depreciation on futures contracts | (24,609 | ) | |
Net cash from (used in) operating activities | 34,532,952 | ||
Cash Flows From (Used In) Financing Activities | |||
Proceeds from shares sold | 6,892,820 | ||
Payments for shares redeemed | (41,384,601 | ) | |
Increase (decrease) in disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 282 | ||
Distributions paid, net of reinvestments | (41,453 | ) | |
Net cash from (used in) financing activities | (34,532,952 | ) | |
Net Increase (Decrease) In Cash | — | ||
Cash at beginning of period | — | ||
Cash at end of period | — | ||
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: | |||
Non cash financing activities not included herein consist of all reinvestment of distributions of $16,212,011. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
23
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. Core Equity Plus Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital growth.
The fund offers the Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class and R Class. The A Class may incur an initial sales charge. The A Class and C Class may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. Exchange-traded futures contracts are valued at the settlement price as provided by the appropriate exchange.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
24
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.
Securities Sold Short — The fund enters into short sales, which is selling securities it does not own, as part of its normal investment activities. Upon selling a security short, the fund will segregate cash, cash equivalents or other appropriate liquid securities in at least an amount equal to the current market value of the securities sold short until the fund replaces the borrowed security. Interest earned on segregated cash for securities sold short, if any, is reflected as interest income. The fund is required to pay any dividends or interest due on securities sold short. Such dividends and interest are recorded as an expense. The fund may pay fees or charges on the assets borrowed for securities sold short. These fees are calculated daily based upon the value of each security sold short and a rate that is dependent on the availability of such security. Liabilities for securities sold short are valued daily and changes in value are recorded as change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on securities sold short. The fund records realized gain (loss) on a security sold short when it is terminated by the fund and includes as a component of net realized gain (loss) on securities sold short transactions.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Segregated Assets — In accordance with the 1940 Act, the fund segregates assets on its books and records to cover certain types of investment securities and other financial instruments. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities segregated to ensure the fund designates a sufficient amount of liquid assets, marked-to-market daily. The fund may also receive assets or be required to pledge assets at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Multiple Class — All shares of the fund represent an equal pro rata interest in the net assets of the class to which such shares belong, and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the fund are allocated to each class of shares based on their relative net assets.
25
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid semiannually. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually. The fund may elect to treat a portion of its payment to a redeeming shareholder, which represents the pro rata share of undistributed net investment income and net realized gains, as a distribution for federal income tax purposes (tax equalization).
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
Statement of Cash Flows — The Statement of Cash Flows has been prepared using the indirect method which requires net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations to be adjusted to reconcile to net cash from (used in) operating activities. The beginning of period and end of period cash is the amount of domestic and foreign currency included in the fund's Statement of Assets and Liabilities and represents the cash on hand at the custodian bank and does not include any short-term investments or deposits for financial instruments.
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS), and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC. Various funds issued by American Century Asset Allocation Portfolios, Inc. own, in aggregate, 92% of the shares of the fund. Related parties do not invest in the fund for the purpose of exercising management or control.
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee) per class. The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except distribution and service fees, expenses on securities sold short, brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on each class's daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The difference in the fee among the classes is a result of their separate arrangements for non-Rule 12b-1 shareholder services. It is not the result of any difference in advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the fund’s assets, which do not vary by class. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The Investment Category Fee range, the Complex Fee range and the effective annual management fee for each class for the period ended June 30, 2019 are as follows:
Investment Category Fee Range | Complex Fee Range | Effective Annual Management Fee | |
Investor Class | 0.9680% to 1.1500% | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.29% |
I Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 1.09% | |
A Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.29% | |
C Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.29% | |
R Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.29% |
Distribution and Service Fees — The Board of Directors has adopted a separate Master Distribution and Individual Shareholder Services Plan for each of the A Class, C Class and R Class (collectively the plans), pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act. The plans provide that the A Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.25%. The plans provide that the C Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 1.00%, of which 0.25% is paid for individual shareholder services and 0.75% is paid for distribution services. The plans provide that the R Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.50%. The fees are computed and accrued daily based on each class’s daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The fees are used to pay financial intermediaries for distribution and individual shareholder services. Fees incurred under the plans during the period ended June 30, 2019 are detailed in the Statement of Operations.
26
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $4,288,263 and $2,572,108, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $(29,624) in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities and securities sold short, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $285,718,185 and $321,745,175, respectively.
5. Capital Share Transactions
Transactions in shares of the fund were as follows:
Year ended June 30, 2019 | Year ended June 30, 2018 | |||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||
Investor Class/Shares Authorized | 110,000,000 | 110,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 453,282 | $ | 6,634,344 | 433,552 | $ | 6,761,560 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 1,210,680 | 16,104,245 | 459,516 | 7,090,550 | ||||||
Redeemed | (2,731,322 | ) | (41,066,676 | ) | (603,054 | ) | (9,339,634 | ) | ||
(1,067,360 | ) | (18,328,087 | ) | 290,014 | 4,512,476 | |||||
I Class/Shares Authorized | 25,000,000 | 25,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | — | — | 778 | 11,358 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 40 | 525 | 100 | 1,539 | ||||||
Redeemed | — | — | (71,046 | ) | (1,062,889 | ) | ||||
40 | 525 | (70,168 | ) | (1,049,992 | ) | |||||
A Class/Shares Authorized | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 5,735 | 92,353 | 15,734 | 244,083 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 4,788 | 63,288 | 1,164 | 17,901 | ||||||
Redeemed | (15,647 | ) | (221,363 | ) | (16,964 | ) | (256,974 | ) | ||
(5,124 | ) | (65,722 | ) | (66 | ) | 5,010 | ||||
C Class/Shares Authorized | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 1,134 | 17,683 | 2,139 | 31,875 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 1,265 | 16,143 | 597 | 8,914 | ||||||
Redeemed | (1,102 | ) | (14,332 | ) | (19,259 | ) | (284,363 | ) | ||
1,297 | 19,494 | (16,523 | ) | (243,574 | ) | |||||
R Class/Shares Authorized | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 8,648 | 127,991 | 6,532 | 100,315 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 2,115 | 27,810 | 487 | 7,443 | ||||||
Redeemed | (5,881 | ) | (82,048 | ) | (3,343 | ) | (52,365 | ) | ||
4,882 | 73,753 | 3,676 | 55,393 | |||||||
Net increase (decrease) | (1,066,265 | ) | $ | (18,300,037 | ) | 206,933 | $ | 3,279,313 |
27
6. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 217,942,757 | — | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 2,113 | $ | 3,159,786 | — | ||||
$ | 217,944,870 | $ | 3,159,786 | — | ||||
Other Financial Instruments | ||||||||
Futures Contracts | $ | 24,609 | — | — | ||||
Liabilities | ||||||||
Securities Sold Short | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 50,929,732 | — | — |
7. Derivative Instruments
Equity Price Risk — The fund is subject to equity price risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. A fund may enter into futures contracts based on an equity index in order to manage its exposure to changes in market conditions. A fund may purchase futures contracts to gain exposure to increases in market value or sell futures contracts to protect against a decline in market value. Upon entering into a futures contract, a fund is required to deposit either cash or securities in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract value (initial margin). Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received daily, in cash, by a fund. The variation margin is equal to the daily change in the contract value and is recorded as unrealized gains and losses. A fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when the contract is closed or expires. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of futures contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts, respectively. One of the risks of entering into futures contracts is the possibility that the change in value of the contract may not correlate with the changes in value of the underlying securities. The fund's average notional exposure to equity price risk derivative instruments held during the period was $500 futures contracts purchased.
The value of equity price risk derivative instruments as of June 30, 2019, is disclosed on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an asset of $6,650 in receivable for variation margin on futures contracts*. For the year ended June 30, 2019, the effect of equity price risk derivative instruments on the Statement of Operations was $(714,850) in net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and $24,609 in change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts.
* Included in the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments.
28
8. Risk Factors
The fund is owned by a relatively small number of shareholders, and in the event such shareholders redeem, the ongoing operations of the fund may be at risk.
The fund is subject to short sales risk. If the market price of a security increases after the fund borrows the security, the fund may suffer a loss when it replaces the borrowed security at the higher price. Any loss will be increased by the amount of compensation, interest or dividends, and transaction costs the fund must pay to the lender of the borrowed security.
The fund's investment strategy utilizes leverage, which can increase market exposure and subject the fund to greater risk and higher volatility.
If the fund is overweighted in a stock or sector, any negative development related to that stock or sector will have a greater impact on the fund than other funds that are not overweighted in that stock or sector.
The fund’s investment process may result in high portfolio turnover, which could mean high transaction costs, affecting both performance and capital gains tax liabilities to investors.
9. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 494,426 | $ | 859,900 | ||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 15,759,038 | $ | 6,280,425 |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 177,036,409 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 47,784,700 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (3,716,453 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | 44,068,247 | ||
Gross tax appreciation on securities sold short | 1,812,884 | ||
Gross tax depreciation on securities sold short | (4,247,520 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) | $ | 41,633,611 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | — | ||
Accumulated long-term gains | $ | 5,116,803 |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
29
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | ||||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | ||||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (excluding expenses on securities sold short) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | ||||||||||||||||
2019 | $15.62 | 0.05 | 0.40 | 0.45 | (0.05) | (1.47) | (1.52) | $14.55 | 3.81% | 1.94% | 1.30% | 0.30% | 122% | $169,173 | ||
2018 | $14.28 | 0.07 | 1.85 | 1.92 | (0.07) | (0.51) | (0.58) | $15.62 | 13.50% | 1.85% | 1.29% | 0.48% | 101% | $198,238 | ||
2017 | $12.31 | 0.06 | 1.97 | 2.03 | (0.06) | — | (0.06) | $14.28 | 16.46% | 1.97% | 1.30% | 0.45% | 111% | $177,112 | ||
2016 | $13.85 | 0.10 | (0.40) | (0.30) | (0.10) | (1.14) | (1.24) | $12.31 | (2.13)% | 1.89% | 1.30% | 0.82% | 107% | $159,174 | ||
2015 | $15.12 | 0.12 | 0.59 | 0.71 | (0.11) | (1.87) | (1.98) | $13.85 | 4.84% | 1.73% | 1.30% | 0.82% | 106% | $163,487 | ||
I Class | ||||||||||||||||
2019 | $15.61 | 0.08 | 0.40 | 0.48 | (0.07) | (1.47) | (1.54) | $14.55 | 4.06% | 1.74% | 1.10% | 0.50% | 122% | $5 | ||
2018 | $14.27 | 0.20 | 1.75 | 1.95 | (0.10) | (0.51) | (0.61) | $15.61 | 13.73% | 1.65% | 1.09% | 0.68% | 101% | $5 | ||
2017 | $12.31 | 0.09 | 1.95 | 2.04 | (0.08) | — | (0.08) | $14.27 | 16.61% | 1.77% | 1.10% | 0.65% | 111% | $1,006 | ||
2016 | $13.85 | 0.13 | (0.39) | (0.26) | (0.14) | (1.14) | (1.28) | $12.31 | (1.91)% | 1.69% | 1.10% | 1.02% | 107% | $1,381 | ||
2015 | $15.13 | 0.15 | 0.57 | 0.72 | (0.13) | (1.87) | (2.00) | $13.85 | 5.04% | 1.53% | 1.10% | 1.02% | 106% | $1,854 | ||
A Class | ||||||||||||||||
2019 | $15.60 | 0.01 | 0.40 | 0.41 | (0.02) | (1.47) | (1.49) | $14.52 | 3.54% | 2.19% | 1.55% | 0.05% | 122% | $542 | ||
2018 | $14.26 | 0.04 | 1.84 | 1.88 | (0.03) | (0.51) | (0.54) | $15.60 | 13.24% | 2.10% | 1.54% | 0.23% | 101% | $662 | ||
2017 | $12.30 | 0.03 | 1.95 | 1.98 | (0.02) | — | (0.02) | $14.26 | 16.10% | 2.22% | 1.55% | 0.20% | 111% | $606 | ||
2016 | $13.84 | 0.07 | (0.39) | (0.32) | (0.08) | (1.14) | (1.22) | $12.30 | (2.35)% | 2.14% | 1.55% | 0.57% | 107% | $882 | ||
2015 | $15.12 | 0.08 | 0.58 | 0.66 | (0.07) | (1.87) | (1.94) | $13.84 | 4.59% | 1.98% | 1.55% | 0.57% | 106% | $801 |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | ||||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | ||||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (excluding expenses on securities sold short) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
C Class | ||||||||||||||||
2019 | $15.14 | (0.10) | 0.38 | 0.28 | — | (1.47) | (1.47) | $13.95 | 2.76% | 2.94% | 2.30% | (0.70)% | 122% | $159 | ||
2018 | $13.93 | (0.06) | 1.78 | 1.72 | — | (0.51) | (0.51) | $15.14 | 12.40% | 2.85% | 2.29% | (0.52)% | 101% | $153 | ||
2017 | $12.09 | (0.07) | 1.91 | 1.84 | — | — | — | $13.93 | 15.22% | 2.97% | 2.30% | (0.55)% | 111% | $371 | ||
2016 | $13.69 | (0.02) | (0.40) | (0.42) | (0.04) | (1.14) | (1.18) | $12.09 | (3.09)% | 2.89% | 2.30% | (0.18)% | 107% | $310 | ||
2015 | $15.01 | (0.03) | 0.58 | 0.55 | — | (1.87) | (1.87) | $13.69 | 3.77% | 2.73% | 2.30% | (0.18)% | 106% | $736 | ||
R Class | ||||||||||||||||
2019 | $15.51 | (0.03) | 0.40 | 0.37 | —(3) | (1.47) | (1.47) | $14.41 | 3.31% | 2.44% | 1.80% | (0.20)% | 122% | $290 | ||
2018 | $14.20 | (0.01) | 1.84 | 1.83 | (0.01) | (0.51) | (0.52) | $15.51 | 12.94% | 2.35% | 1.79% | (0.02)% | 101% | $237 | ||
2017 | $12.26 | —(3) | 1.94 | 1.94 | — | — | — | $14.20 | 15.82% | 2.47% | 1.80% | (0.05)% | 111% | $165 | ||
2016 | $13.83 | 0.03 | (0.39) | (0.36) | (0.07) | (1.14) | (1.21) | $12.26 | (2.62)% | 2.39% | 1.80% | 0.32% | 107% | $57 | ||
2015 | $15.11 | 0.04 | 0.59 | 0.63 | (0.04) | (1.87) | (1.91) | $13.83 | 4.28% | 2.23% | 1.80% | 0.32% | 106% | $9 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day and do not reflect applicable sales charges, if any. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
(3) | Per-share amount was less than $0.005. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of Core Equity Plus Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of Core Equity Plus Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statements of operations and cash flows for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
32
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
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Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
34
Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
35
Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
36
Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was below its benchmark for the one-, three-, and five-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board discussed the Fund’s performance with the Advisor and was satisfied with the efforts being undertaken by the Advisor. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
37
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer group. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
38
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
39
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
40
Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $494,426, or up to the maximum amount allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
The fund hereby designates $16,906,250, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund utilized earnings and profits of $1,147,212 distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares as part of the dividends paid deduction (tax equalization).
41
Notes |
42
Notes |
43
Notes |
44
Notes |
45
Notes |
46
Notes |
47
Notes |
48
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92994 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
Disciplined Growth Fund | |
Investor Class (ADSIX) | |
I Class (ADCIX) | |
Y Class (ADCYX) | |
A Class (ADCVX) | |
C Class (ADCCX) | |
R Class (ADRRX) | |
R5 Class (ADGGX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
President's Letter | 2 | |
Performance | 3 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
President’s Letter |
Jonathan Thomas
Dear Investor:
Thank you for reviewing this annual report for the period ended June 30, 2019. Annual reports help convey important information about fund returns, including market factors that affected performance during the reporting period. For additional investment and market insights, we encourage you to visit our website, americancentury.com.
Markets Overcame Heightened Volatility
Most broad large- and mid-cap stock indices ended the 12-month period with gains. However, these positive results masked some severe volatility, which led to wide performance swings. For example, the S&P 500 Index returned -6.85% in the first half of the period and 18.54% in the second half, leaving the index up 10.42% for the year. Even more dramatic, the S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index returned -21.91% in the first half of the reporting period, 13.34% in the second half, and -11.49% overall.
Fed’s Flip Fueled Investor Optimism
In the first half, mounting concerns about slowing global economic and earnings growth and Federal Reserve (Fed) policy soured investor sentiment. After raising rates in September, the Fed hiked again in December and delivered a surprisingly hawkish rate-hike outlook that worried investors and fueled a steep sell-off among riskier assets. Meanwhile, the risk-off climate sparked a flight to quality. Treasury yields plunged, triggering a rally among perceived safe-haven assets.
The new year brought a renewed sense of stability to financial markets and a key policy pivot from the Fed. The central bank abruptly and unexpectedly ended its rate-hike campaign and adopted a dovish tone amid moderating global growth and inflation. Additionally, investors’ worst-case fears about growth, trade and corporate earnings eased. Equity valuations appeared attractive, and a rally ensued. At the same time, Treasury yields continued to fall on moderating global growth data, muted inflation and accommodative central bank policy, which supported continued gains for interest rate-sensitive assets.
Looking ahead, we expect volatility to remain a formidable factor as investors react to global growth and trade trends, central bank policy and geopolitical developments. We believe this scenario underscores the importance of using professionally managed portfolios in pursuit of your investment goals. We appreciate your continued trust and confidence in us.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Thomas
President and Chief Executive Officer
American Century Investments
2
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | ||||||
Average Annual Returns | ||||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | ADSIX | 6.61% | 9.82% | 15.08% | — | 9/30/05 |
Russell 1000 Growth Index | — | 11.56% | 13.38% | 16.27% | — | — |
I Class | ADCIX | 6.82% | 10.04% | 15.32% | — | 9/30/05 |
Y Class | ADCYX | 6.87% | — | — | 12.98% | 4/10/17 |
A Class | ADCVX | 9/30/05 | ||||
No sales charge | 6.32% | 9.54% | 14.79% | — | ||
With sales charge | 0.20% | 8.25% | 14.11% | — | ||
C Class | ADCCX | 5.57% | 8.73% | 13.93% | — | 9/28/07 |
R Class | ADRRX | 6.03% | 9.27% | 14.51% | — | 9/30/05 |
R5 Class | ADGGX | 6.82% | — | — | 12.92% | 4/10/17 |
Average annual returns since inception are presented when ten years of performance history is not available.
Sales charges include initial sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSCs), as applicable. A Class shares have a 5.75% maximum initial sales charge and may be subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. C Class shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase are subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. The SEC requires that mutual funds provide performance information net of maximum sales charges in all cases where charges could be applied.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
3
Growth of $10,000 Over 10 Years |
$10,000 investment made June 30, 2009 |
Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure. |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $40,776 | |
Russell 1000 Growth Index — $45,185 | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | ||||||
Investor Class | I Class | Y Class | A Class | C Class | R Class | R5 Class |
1.02% | 0.82% | 0.77% | 1.27% | 2.02% | 1.52% | 0.82% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
4
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Yulin Long and Tsuyoshi Ozaki
Performance Summary
Disciplined Growth returned 6.61%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, compared with the 11.56% return of its benchmark, the Russell 1000 Growth Index.
Disciplined Growth advanced during the fiscal year, but underperformed its benchmark, the Russell 1000 Growth Index. Stock selection in the consumer staples and information technology sectors detracted, while positioning in utilities benefited relative performance.
Positioning Across Several Sectors Detracted from Relative Returns
Security selection in the consumer staples sector was the largest driver of relative underperformance. Stock selection within the beverages industry hurt relative results the most in the sector. Reduced exposure to The Coca-Cola Co., which performed well the last several months of the period, was among the top individual detractors from performance. Positioning in Constellation Brands and PepsiCo also weighed on returns. We have since exited our position in Constellation Brands. Elsewhere in the sector, security selection in the personal products industry detracted, as did positioning in tobacco and household products.
In the information technology sector, stock choices in the technology hardware, storage and peripherals industry provided the biggest headwind for returns. Western Digital was among the top individual detractors for the period. The price of the data storage device company was hurt during the 12 months by concerns over trade with China and weak earnings. Factor scores fell, and we closed the position during the period. In semiconductors and semiconductor equipment, a position in Xilinx was also among the largest detractors. Elsewhere in the sector, holdings among electronic equipment, instruments and components and communications equipment industries also constrained performance.
Within the energy sector, an overweight to Halliburton was among the top detractors from overall performance. Other notable individual detractors outside of the energy sector included positions in luxury accessory maker Tapestry, which owns brands such as Coach and Kate Spade, and materials company Steel Dynamics were among the top individual detractors. The stocks of both companies slid during the period, due in part to investor concerns over weakening demand from non-U.S. consumers. We closed our positions in Halliburton, Tapestry and Steel Dynamics prior to the end of the 12 months.
Security Choices within Utilities and Elsewhere Were Additive
Within the utilities sector, a position in NRG Energy helped relative returns. We have since exited the position. Elsewhere in the portfolio, several stocks contributed meaningfully to performance. Specialty retail company AutoZone was among the top individual contributors. The stock of the automotive parts retailer rose during the period. The stock maintains high scores within our model for sentiment and quality. A position in outdoor clothing and shoe retailer Deckers Outdoor was also beneficial. The company beat earnings estimates and raised guidance several times throughout the 12 months. The retailer maintains above-average scores across all four model factors. Reduced exposure to electronic component manufacturer NVIDIA was also among the top contributors. The stock slid during the period amid concerns over trade with China; its growth and quality scores deteriorated. We have since exited the position.
*All fund returns referenced in this commentary are for Investor Class shares. Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure; when Investor Class performance exceeds that of the fund’s benchmark, other share classes may not. See page 3 for returns for all share classes.
5
A Look Ahead
Our disciplined, objective and systematic investment strategy is designed to take advantage of opportunities at the individual company level. We believe this approach is the most powerful way to capitalize on market inefficiencies that lead to the mispricing of individual stocks. As a result of this approach, our sector and industry allocations reflect where we are finding the greatest opportunities among individual companies at a given time.
At period-end, information technology was the most overweight sector. Based on our models, we are currently seeing opportunities in the software and technology hardware, storage and peripherals industries. Consumer discretionary is also among our largest active weights as of period-end. Based on our factor model, we believe there are significant opportunities in the textiles, apparel and luxury goods and specialty retail industries. Conversely, we are underweight the industrials and materials sectors. Industrial conglomerates and machinery companies show a lack of opportunity and are comparatively unattractive in terms of our model metrics. In the materials sector, our underweight is driven by a lack of exposure across multiple industry groups, particularly chemicals.
6
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Holdings | % of net assets |
Microsoft Corp. | 7.9% |
Apple, Inc. | 7.7% |
Amazon.com, Inc. | 6.6% |
Alphabet, Inc., Class A | 5.4% |
Facebook, Inc., Class A | 3.6% |
Visa, Inc., Class A | 3.4% |
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 2.2% |
Starbucks Corp. | 1.7% |
PayPal Holdings, Inc. | 1.7% |
Illumina, Inc. | 1.4% |
Top Five Industries | % of net assets |
Software | 13.9% |
IT Services | 9.9% |
Interactive Media and Services | 9.0% |
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals | 7.7% |
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail | 7.5% |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Common Stocks | 99.7% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 0.3% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | —* |
*Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets. |
7
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
If you hold Investor Class shares of any American Century Investments fund, or I Class shares of the American Century Diversified Bond Fund, in an American Century Investments account (i.e., not a financial intermediary or retirement plan account), American Century Investments may charge you a $12.50 semiannual account maintenance fee if the value of those shares is less than $10,000. We will redeem shares automatically in one of your accounts to pay the $12.50 fee. In determining your total eligible investment amount, we will include your investments in all personal accounts (including American Century Investments Brokerage accounts) registered under your Social Security number. Personal accounts include individual accounts, joint accounts, UGMA/UTMA accounts, personal trusts, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and IRAs (including traditional, Roth, Rollover, SEP-, SARSEP- and SIMPLE-IRAs), and certain other retirement accounts. If you have only business, business retirement, employer-sponsored or American Century Investments Brokerage accounts, you are currently not subject to this fee. If you are subject to the Account Maintenance Fee, your account value could be reduced by the fee amount.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
8
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,191.40 | $5.54 | 1.02% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,192.30 | $4.46 | 0.82% |
Y Class | $1,000 | $1,192.50 | $4.19 | 0.77% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,189.80 | $6.90 | 1.27% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,185.10 | $10.94 | 2.02% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,187.80 | $8.25 | 1.52% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $1,192.20 | $4.46 | 0.82% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,019.74 | $5.11 | 1.02% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,020.73 | $4.11 | 0.82% |
Y Class | $1,000 | $1,020.98 | $3.86 | 0.77% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,018.50 | $6.36 | 1.27% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,014.78 | $10.09 | 2.02% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,017.26 | $7.60 | 1.52% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $1,020.73 | $4.11 | 0.82% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
9
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 99.7% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — 1.4% | ||||
Boeing Co. (The) | 12,729 | $ | 4,633,483 | |
Lockheed Martin Corp. | 2,558 | 929,935 | ||
Mercury Systems, Inc.(1) | 29,979 | 2,109,023 | ||
7,672,441 | ||||
Air Freight and Logistics — 0.6% | ||||
CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc. | 19,215 | 1,620,785 | ||
United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B | 17,446 | 1,801,649 | ||
3,422,434 | ||||
Banks — 1.1% | ||||
Central Pacific Financial Corp. | 110,119 | 3,299,165 | ||
Comerica, Inc. | 27,237 | 1,978,496 | ||
Independent Bank Corp. | 18,897 | 411,766 | ||
5,689,427 | ||||
Beverages — 2.3% | ||||
Coca-Cola Co. (The) | 78,678 | 4,006,284 | ||
Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. | 2,124 | 635,607 | ||
Monster Beverage Corp.(1) | 18,796 | 1,199,749 | ||
PepsiCo, Inc. | 50,796 | 6,660,879 | ||
12,502,519 | ||||
Biotechnology — 3.0% | ||||
AbbVie, Inc. | 70,944 | 5,159,048 | ||
Amgen, Inc. | 18,881 | 3,479,391 | ||
Biogen, Inc.(1) | 7,807 | 1,825,823 | ||
Celgene Corp.(1) | 29,474 | 2,724,576 | ||
Gilead Sciences, Inc. | 7,718 | 521,428 | ||
Incyte Corp.(1) | 22,818 | 1,938,617 | ||
Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 1,699 | 311,563 | ||
15,960,446 | ||||
Building Products — 0.8% | ||||
Masco Corp. | 103,324 | 4,054,434 | ||
Capital Markets — 1.3% | ||||
Evercore, Inc., Class A | 22,706 | 2,011,070 | ||
FactSet Research Systems, Inc. | 5,169 | 1,481,229 | ||
MSCI, Inc. | 11,453 | 2,734,862 | ||
Piper Jaffray Cos. | 11,855 | 880,471 | ||
7,107,632 | ||||
Chemicals† | ||||
Scotts Miracle-Gro Co. (The) | 856 | 84,316 | ||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 1.9% | ||||
Republic Services, Inc. | 57,024 | 4,940,559 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
Waste Management, Inc. | 43,499 | $ | 5,018,480 | |
9,959,039 | ||||
Communications Equipment — 0.7% | ||||
Motorola Solutions, Inc. | 21,142 | 3,525,006 | ||
Construction and Engineering — 0.1% | ||||
Comfort Systems USA, Inc. | 7,230 | 368,657 | ||
EMCOR Group, Inc. | 3,757 | 330,992 | ||
699,649 | ||||
Distributors — 0.4% | ||||
Core-Mark Holding Co., Inc. | 59,022 | 2,344,354 | ||
Diversified Consumer Services† | ||||
ServiceMaster Global Holdings, Inc.(1) | 4,475 | 233,103 | ||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 1.8% | ||||
CDW Corp. | 50,257 | 5,578,527 | ||
FLIR Systems, Inc. | 4,257 | 230,304 | ||
National Instruments Corp. | 51,876 | 2,178,273 | ||
Zebra Technologies Corp., Class A(1) | 6,600 | 1,382,634 | ||
9,369,738 | ||||
Entertainment — 4.4% | ||||
Activision Blizzard, Inc. | 101,200 | 4,776,640 | ||
Electronic Arts, Inc.(1) | 56,058 | 5,676,433 | ||
Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.(1) | 26,073 | 1,727,336 | ||
Netflix, Inc.(1) | 9,811 | 3,603,776 | ||
Rosetta Stone, Inc.(1) | 40,457 | 925,656 | ||
Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.(1) | 36,352 | 4,127,043 | ||
Walt Disney Co. (The) | 18,845 | 2,631,516 | ||
23,468,400 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 1.5% | ||||
American Tower Corp. | 16,898 | 3,454,796 | ||
GEO Group, Inc. (The) | 85,882 | 1,804,381 | ||
Life Storage, Inc. | 15,335 | 1,458,052 | ||
Saul Centers, Inc. | 11,874 | 666,488 | ||
SBA Communications Corp.(1) | 2,204 | 495,547 | ||
7,879,264 | ||||
Food and Staples Retailing — 0.2% | ||||
Costco Wholesale Corp. | 4,157 | 1,098,529 | ||
Food Products — 1.6% | ||||
General Mills, Inc. | 76,257 | 4,005,017 | ||
Hershey Co. (The) | 34,235 | 4,588,517 | ||
John B Sanfilippo & Son, Inc. | 2,043 | 162,807 | ||
8,756,341 | ||||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 1.6% | ||||
DexCom, Inc.(1) | 12,441 | 1,864,159 | ||
Integer Holdings Corp.(1) | 46,889 | 3,934,925 | ||
Stryker Corp. | 10,718 | 2,203,407 | ||
Surmodics, Inc.(1) | 9,876 | 426,347 | ||
8,428,838 |
11
Shares | Value | |||
Health Care Providers and Services — 2.7% | ||||
Amedisys, Inc.(1) | 30,105 | $ | 3,655,048 | |
Chemed Corp. | 3,543 | 1,278,456 | ||
CorVel Corp.(1) | 17,939 | 1,560,873 | ||
HealthEquity, Inc.(1) | 31,390 | 2,052,906 | ||
UnitedHealth Group, Inc. | 23,728 | 5,789,869 | ||
14,337,152 | ||||
Health Care Technology — 1.1% | ||||
Veeva Systems, Inc., Class A(1) | 37,233 | 6,035,842 | ||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 2.9% | ||||
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.(1) | 1,941 | 1,422,520 | ||
Darden Restaurants, Inc. | 41,500 | 5,051,795 | ||
Starbucks Corp. | 109,639 | 9,191,037 | ||
15,665,352 | ||||
Household Products — 0.8% | ||||
Colgate-Palmolive Co. | 58,500 | 4,192,695 | ||
Insurance — 1.3% | ||||
Progressive Corp. (The) | 85,057 | 6,798,606 | ||
Interactive Media and Services — 9.0% | ||||
Alphabet, Inc., Class A(1) | 26,535 | 28,732,098 | ||
Facebook, Inc., Class A(1) | 101,102 | 19,512,686 | ||
48,244,784 | ||||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 7.5% | ||||
Amazon.com, Inc.(1) | 18,491 | 35,015,112 | ||
eBay, Inc. | 121,316 | 4,791,982 | ||
39,807,094 | ||||
IT Services — 9.9% | ||||
Accenture plc, Class A | 7,997 | 1,477,606 | ||
Akamai Technologies, Inc.(1) | 60,187 | 4,823,386 | ||
EVERTEC, Inc. | 112,062 | 3,664,427 | ||
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 44,838 | 11,860,996 | ||
Okta, Inc.(1) | 18,052 | 2,229,603 | ||
PayPal Holdings, Inc.(1) | 77,565 | 8,878,090 | ||
Square, Inc., Class A(1) | 24,847 | 1,802,153 | ||
Visa, Inc., Class A | 103,524 | 17,966,590 | ||
52,702,851 | ||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 2.4% | ||||
Illumina, Inc.(1) | 19,651 | 7,234,516 | ||
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. | 18,469 | 5,423,976 | ||
12,658,492 | ||||
Machinery — 1.2% | ||||
Albany International Corp., Class A | 1,865 | 154,627 | ||
Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. | 57,869 | 2,682,228 | ||
Woodward, Inc. | 29,603 | 3,349,876 | ||
6,186,731 | ||||
Multiline Retail — 0.6% | ||||
Dollar General Corp. | 24,902 | 3,365,754 |
12
Shares | Value | |||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 0.9% | ||||
CVR Energy, Inc. | 97,120 | $ | 4,855,029 | |
Pharmaceuticals — 1.9% | ||||
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. | 13,593 | 616,443 | ||
Eli Lilly & Co. | 33,880 | 3,753,565 | ||
Johnson & Johnson | 1,866 | 259,896 | ||
Merck & Co., Inc. | 15,702 | 1,316,613 | ||
Zoetis, Inc. | 36,282 | 4,117,644 | ||
10,064,161 | ||||
Professional Services — 0.6% | ||||
CoStar Group, Inc.(1) | 5,704 | 3,160,358 | ||
Road and Rail — 1.0% | ||||
CSX Corp. | 66,574 | 5,150,830 | ||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 2.1% | ||||
Broadcom, Inc. | 21,616 | 6,222,382 | ||
Cypress Semiconductor Corp. | 24,828 | 552,175 | ||
Lattice Semiconductor Corp.(1) | 111,284 | 1,623,633 | ||
Qorvo, Inc.(1) | 19,716 | 1,313,283 | ||
Xilinx, Inc. | 13,400 | 1,580,128 | ||
11,291,601 | ||||
Software — 13.9% | ||||
Adobe, Inc.(1) | 8,895 | 2,620,912 | ||
ANSYS, Inc.(1) | 3,185 | 652,352 | ||
Aspen Technology, Inc.(1) | 6,641 | 825,343 | ||
Atlassian Corp. plc, Class A(1) | 20,781 | 2,718,986 | ||
Autodesk, Inc.(1) | 20,931 | 3,409,660 | ||
Cadence Design Systems, Inc.(1) | 65,171 | 4,614,758 | ||
Fair Isaac Corp.(1) | 2,770 | 869,835 | ||
Intuit, Inc. | 22,736 | 5,941,599 | ||
Manhattan Associates, Inc.(1) | 10,820 | 750,151 | ||
Microsoft Corp. | 314,802 | 42,170,876 | ||
Paycom Software, Inc.(1) | 15,288 | 3,466,095 | ||
salesforce.com, Inc.(1) | 16,544 | 2,510,221 | ||
ServiceNow, Inc.(1) | 13,596 | 3,733,054 | ||
74,283,842 | ||||
Specialty Retail — 3.6% | ||||
AutoZone, Inc.(1) | 5,508 | 6,055,881 | ||
Home Depot, Inc. (The) | 26,492 | 5,509,541 | ||
Murphy USA, Inc.(1) | 26,599 | 2,235,114 | ||
O'Reilly Automotive, Inc.(1) | 14,448 | 5,335,935 | ||
19,136,471 | ||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals — 7.7% | ||||
Apple, Inc. | 207,967 | 41,160,829 | ||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 2.2% | ||||
Deckers Outdoor Corp.(1) | 29,101 | 5,120,903 | ||
NIKE, Inc., Class B | 81,052 | 6,804,315 | ||
11,925,218 |
13
Shares | Value | |||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — 1.0% | ||||
Essent Group Ltd.(1) | 92,121 | $ | 4,328,766 | |
NMI Holdings, Inc., Class A(1) | 38,655 | 1,097,415 | ||
5,426,181 | ||||
Trading Companies and Distributors — 0.6% | ||||
Foundation Building Materials, Inc.(1) | 27,246 | 484,434 | ||
HD Supply Holdings, Inc.(1) | 66,641 | 2,684,299 | ||
3,168,733 | ||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.1% | ||||
T-Mobile US, Inc.(1) | 8,016 | 594,306 | ||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $361,166,882) | 532,468,822 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 0.3% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $1,392,625), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $1,367,581) | 1,367,325 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.375%, 7/15/27, valued at $269,245), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $259,027) | 259,000 | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 2,844 | 2,844 | ||
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $1,629,169) | 1,629,169 | |||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES — 100.0% (Cost $362,796,051) | 534,097,991 | |||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES† | (151,471 | ) | ||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 533,946,520 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
† | Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets. |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
14
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $362,796,051) | $ | 534,097,991 | |
Receivable for capital shares sold | 569,752 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 189,959 | ||
534,857,702 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 1,264 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 475,636 | ||
Accrued management fees | 402,454 | ||
Distribution and service fees payable | 31,828 | ||
911,182 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 533,946,520 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 353,437,608 | |
Distributable earnings | 180,508,912 | ||
$ | 533,946,520 |
Net Assets | Shares Outstanding | Net Asset Value Per Share | ||||
Investor Class, $0.01 Par Value | $250,919,862 | 11,532,951 | $21.76 | |||
I Class, $0.01 Par Value | $213,804,987 | 9,791,524 | $21.84 | |||
Y Class, $0.01 Par Value | $578,809 | 26,494 | $21.85 | |||
A Class, $0.01 Par Value | $31,649,573 | 1,470,006 | $21.53* | |||
C Class, $0.01 Par Value | $26,088,111 | 1,305,881 | $19.98 | |||
R Class, $0.01 Par Value | $9,947,725 | 472,267 | $21.06 | |||
R5 Class, $0.01 Par Value | $957,453 | 43,821 | $21.85 |
*Maximum offering price $22.84 (net asset value divided by 0.9425).
See Notes to Financial Statements.
15
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends | $ | 7,349,650 | |
Interest | 57,206 | ||
7,406,856 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Management fees | 5,536,973 | ||
Distribution and service fees: | |||
A Class | 83,550 | ||
C Class | 336,065 | ||
R Class | 48,129 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 41,726 | ||
Other expenses | 9,362 | ||
6,055,805 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 1,351,051 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions | 45,932,096 | ||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | (14,402,286 | ) | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 31,529,810 | ||
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | 32,880,861 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
16
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 1,351,051 | $ | 1,504,460 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | 45,932,096 | 102,467,670 | ||||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (14,402,286 | ) | 26,906,887 | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 32,880,861 | 130,879,017 | ||||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings:(1) | ||||||
Investor Class | (45,161,834 | ) | (33,683,311 | ) | ||
I Class | (29,157,974 | ) | (21,343,836 | ) | ||
Y Class | (64,786 | ) | (497 | ) | ||
A Class | (4,846,907 | ) | (4,537,047 | ) | ||
C Class | (5,520,779 | ) | (3,660,556 | ) | ||
R Class | (1,329,846 | ) | (837,751 | ) | ||
R5 Class | (174,914 | ) | (42,306 | ) | ||
Decrease in net assets from distributions | (86,257,040 | ) | (64,105,304 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions (Note 5) | (96,661,652 | ) | (169,631,530 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (150,037,831 | ) | (102,857,817 | ) | ||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 683,984,351 | 786,842,168 | ||||
End of period | $ | 533,946,520 | $ | 683,984,351 |
(1) | Prior period presentation has been updated to reflect the current period combination of distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains. Distributions from net investment income were $(472,347), $(777,511), $(23) and $(3,760) for Investor Class, I Class, Y Class and R5 Class, respectively. Distributions from net realized gains were $(33,210,964), $(20,566,325), $(474), $(4,537,047), $(3,660,556), $(837,751) and $(38,546) for Investor Class, I Class, Y Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class, respectively. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
17
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. Disciplined Growth Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital growth.
The fund offers the Investor Class, I Class, Y Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class. The A Class may incur an initial sales charge. The A Class and C Class may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
18
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Multiple Class — All shares of the fund represent an equal pro rata interest in the net assets of the class to which such shares belong, and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the fund are allocated to each class of shares based on their relative net assets.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid semiannually. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually. The fund may elect to treat a portion of its payment to a redeeming shareholder, which represents the pro rata share of undistributed net investment income and net realized gains, as a distribution for federal income tax purposes (tax equalization).
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS), and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC.
19
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee) per class. The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except distribution and service fees, brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on each class's daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The difference in the fee among the classes is a result of their separate arrangements for non-Rule 12b-1 shareholder services. It is not the result of any difference in advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the fund’s assets, which do not vary by class. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The Investment Category Fee range, the Complex Fee range and the effective annual management fee for each class for the period ended June 30, 2019 are as follows:
Investment Category Fee Range | Complex Fee Range | Effective Annual Management Fee | |
Investor Class | 0.6880% to 0.8700% | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.01% |
I Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.81% | |
Y Class | 0.0000% to 0.0600% | 0.76% | |
A Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.01% | |
C Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.01% | |
R Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.01% | |
R5 Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.81% |
Distribution and Service Fees — The Board of Directors has adopted a separate Master Distribution and Individual Shareholder Services Plan for each of the A Class, C Class and R Class (collectively the plans), pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act. The plans provide that the A Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.25%. The plans provide that the C Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 1.00%, of which 0.25% is paid for individual shareholder services and 0.75% is paid for distribution services. The plans provide that the R Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.50%. The fees are computed and accrued daily based on each class’s daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The fees are used to pay financial intermediaries for distribution and individual shareholder services. Fees incurred under the plans during the period ended June 30, 2019 are detailed in the Statement of Operations.
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $8,377,261 and $5,300,524, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $639,398 in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $615,737,545 and $794,439,754, respectively.
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5. Capital Share Transactions
Transactions in shares of the fund were as follows:
Year ended June 30, 2019 | Year ended June 30, 2018 | |||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||
Investor Class/Shares Authorized | 170,000,000 | 170,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 1,724,795 | $ | 38,178,631 | 2,472,572 | $ | 58,172,305 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 2,313,663 | 44,454,539 | 1,466,544 | 33,371,100 | ||||||
Redeemed | (7,593,146 | ) | (167,211,561 | ) | (8,504,895 | ) | (200,151,785 | ) | ||
(3,554,688 | ) | (84,578,391 | ) | (4,565,779 | ) | (108,608,380 | ) | |||
I Class/Shares Authorized | 100,000,000 | 100,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 3,351,906 | 73,682,578 | 3,053,444 | 71,671,023 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 1,504,817 | 29,065,330 | 913,990 | 20,917,098 | ||||||
Redeemed | (4,650,312 | ) | (102,481,992 | ) | (5,144,961 | ) | (120,641,069 | ) | ||
206,411 | 265,916 | (1,177,527 | ) | (28,052,948 | ) | |||||
Y Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 23,311 | 576,397 | — | — | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 3,350 | 64,786 | 22 | 497 | ||||||
Redeemed | (421 | ) | (9,234 | ) | — | — | ||||
26,240 | 631,949 | 22 | 497 | |||||||
A Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 230,717 | 4,997,549 | 376,774 | 8,788,129 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 228,295 | 4,338,081 | 167,654 | 3,782,262 | ||||||
Redeemed | (573,977 | ) | (12,456,674 | ) | (1,620,851 | ) | (37,798,729 | ) | ||
(114,965 | ) | (3,121,044 | ) | (1,076,423 | ) | (25,228,338 | ) | |||
C Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 48,617 | 973,637 | 93,700 | 2,087,597 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 300,837 | 5,318,801 | 164,651 | 3,523,536 | ||||||
Redeemed | (828,976 | ) | (16,048,707 | ) | (589,772 | ) | (13,023,595 | ) | ||
(479,522 | ) | (9,756,269 | ) | (331,421 | ) | (7,412,462 | ) | |||
R Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 106,184 | 2,301,204 | 71,330 | 1,648,416 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 71,536 | 1,329,846 | 37,720 | 837,751 | ||||||
Redeemed | (158,256 | ) | (3,624,503 | ) | (172,037 | ) | (3,935,711 | ) | ||
19,464 | 6,547 | (62,987 | ) | (1,449,544 | ) | |||||
R5 Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 30,933 | 631,619 | 48,935 | 1,165,506 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 9,057 | 174,914 | 1,840 | 42,306 | ||||||
Redeemed | (43,479 | ) | (916,893 | ) | (3,697 | ) | (88,167 | ) | ||
(3,489 | ) | (110,360 | ) | 47,078 | 1,119,645 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) | (3,900,549 | ) | $ | (96,661,652 | ) | (7,167,037 | ) | $ | (169,631,530 | ) |
6. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
21
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 532,468,822 | — | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 2,844 | $ | 1,626,325 | — | ||||
$ | 532,471,666 | $ | 1,626,325 | — |
7. Risk Factors
The fund’s investment process may result in high portfolio turnover, which could mean high transaction costs, affecting both performance and capital gains tax liabilities to investors.
8. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 18,056,173 | $ | 17,580,908 | ||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 68,200,867 | $ | 46,524,396 |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 364,487,237 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 172,564,290 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (2,953,536 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | $ | 169,610,754 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | — | ||
Accumulated long-term gains | $ | 10,898,158 |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
22
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $24.05 | 0.05 | 1.08 | 1.13 | (0.04) | (3.38) | (3.42) | $21.76 | 6.61% | 1.02% | 0.24% | 105% | $250,920 | ||
2018 | $22.10 | 0.05 | 3.97 | 4.02 | (0.03) | (2.04) | (2.07) | $24.05 | 18.80% | 1.02% | 0.21% | 97% | $362,865 | ||
2017 | $18.36 | 0.11 | 3.74 | 3.85 | (0.11) | — | (0.11) | $22.10 | 20.88% | 1.02% | 0.51% | 124% | $434,242 | ||
2016 | $19.15 | 0.12 | (0.53) | (0.41) | (0.12) | (0.26) | (0.38) | $18.36 | (2.08)% | 1.03% | 0.64% | 113% | $370,901 | ||
2015 | $18.82 | 0.14 | 1.09 | 1.23 | (0.11) | (0.79) | (0.90) | $19.15 | 6.59% | 1.02% | 0.75% | 108% | $502,389 | ||
I Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $24.13 | 0.10 | 1.08 | 1.18 | (0.09) | (3.38) | (3.47) | $21.84 | 6.82% | 0.82% | 0.44% | 105% | $213,805 | ||
2018 | $22.16 | 0.10 | 3.99 | 4.09 | (0.08) | (2.04) | (2.12) | $24.13 | 19.01% | 0.82% | 0.41% | 97% | $231,261 | ||
2017 | $18.41 | 0.15 | 3.75 | 3.90 | (0.15) | — | (0.15) | $22.16 | 21.18% | 0.82% | 0.71% | 124% | $238,480 | ||
2016 | $19.20 | 0.16 | (0.53) | (0.37) | (0.16) | (0.26) | (0.42) | $18.41 | (1.95)% | 0.83% | 0.84% | 113% | $318,576 | ||
2015 | $18.87 | 0.20 | 1.06 | 1.26 | (0.14) | (0.79) | (0.93) | $19.20 | 6.84% | 0.82% | 0.95% | 108% | $372,011 | ||
Y Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $24.14 | 0.12 | 1.07 | 1.19 | (0.10) | (3.38) | (3.48) | $21.85 | 6.87% | 0.77% | 0.49% | 105% | $579 | ||
2018 | $22.17 | 0.11 | 3.99 | 4.10 | (0.09) | (2.04) | (2.13) | $24.14 | 19.06% | 0.77% | 0.46% | 97% | $6 | ||
2017(3) | $21.62 | 0.04 | 0.63 | 0.67 | (0.12) | — | (0.12) | $22.17 | 3.07% | 0.77%(4) | 0.74%(4) | 124%(5) | $5 |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
A Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $23.87 | —(6) | 1.06 | 1.06 | (0.02) | (3.38) | (3.40) | $21.53 | 6.32% | 1.27% | (0.01)% | 105% | $31,650 | ||
2018 | $21.97 | (0.01) | 3.95 | 3.94 | — | (2.04) | (2.04) | $23.87 | 18.48% | 1.27% | (0.04)% | 97% | $37,832 | ||
2017 | $18.28 | 0.05 | 3.72 | 3.77 | (0.08) | — | (0.08) | $21.97 | 20.61% | 1.27% | 0.26% | 124% | $58,469 | ||
2016 | $19.09 | 0.07 | (0.52) | (0.45) | (0.10) | (0.26) | (0.36) | $18.28 | (2.35)% | 1.28% | 0.39% | 113% | $133,042 | ||
2015 | $18.77 | 0.09 | 1.08 | 1.17 | (0.06) | (0.79) | (0.85) | $19.09 | 6.35% | 1.27% | 0.50% | 108% | $173,300 | ||
C Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $22.55 | (0.16) | 0.97 | 0.81 | — | (3.38) | (3.38) | $19.98 | 5.57% | 2.02% | (0.76)% | 105% | $26,088 | ||
2018 | $21.00 | (0.17) | 3.76 | 3.59 | — | (2.04) | (2.04) | $22.55 | 17.57% | 2.02% | (0.79)% | 97% | $40,253 | ||
2017 | $17.54 | (0.09) | 3.55 | 3.46 | — | — | — | $21.00 | 19.73% | 2.02% | (0.49)% | 124% | $44,456 | ||
2016 | $18.41 | (0.06) | (0.51) | (0.57) | (0.04) | (0.26) | (0.30) | $17.54 | (3.11)% | 2.03% | (0.36)% | 113% | $45,050 | ||
2015 | $18.21 | (0.05) | 1.04 | 0.99 | — | (0.79) | (0.79) | $18.41 | 5.56% | 2.02% | (0.25)% | 108% | $50,355 | ||
R Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $23.47 | (0.06) | 1.03 | 0.97 | — | (3.38) | (3.38) | $21.06 | 6.03% | 1.52% | (0.26)% | 105% | $9,948 | ||
2018 | $21.68 | (0.06) | 3.89 | 3.83 | — | (2.04) | (2.04) | $23.47 | 18.20% | 1.52% | (0.29)% | 97% | $10,626 | ||
2017 | $18.06 | —(6) | 3.67 | 3.67 | (0.05) | — | (0.05) | $21.68 | 20.33% | 1.52% | 0.01% | 124% | $11,184 | ||
2016 | $18.89 | 0.03 | (0.52) | (0.49) | (0.08) | (0.26) | (0.34) | $18.06 | (2.60)% | 1.53% | 0.14% | 113% | $12,778 | ||
2015 | $18.60 | 0.04 | 1.06 | 1.10 | (0.02) | (0.79) | (0.81) | $18.89 | 6.06% | 1.52% | 0.25% | 108% | $14,449 | ||
R5 Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $24.14 | 0.10 | 1.08 | 1.18 | (0.09) | (3.38) | (3.47) | $21.85 | 6.82% | 0.82% | 0.44% | 105% | $957 | ||
2018 | $22.17 | 0.10 | 3.99 | 4.09 | (0.08) | (2.04) | (2.12) | $24.14 | 19.00% | 0.82% | 0.41% | 97% | $1,142 | ||
2017(3) | $21.62 | 0.03 | 0.63 | 0.66 | (0.11) | — | (0.11) | $22.17 | 3.06% | 0.82%(4) | 0.69%(4) | 124%(5) | $5 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day and do not reflect applicable sales charges, if any. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
(3) | April 10, 2017 (commencement of sale) through June 30, 2017. |
(4) | Annualized. |
(5) | Portfolio turnover is calculated at the fund level. Percentage indicated was calculated for the year ended June 30, 2017. |
(6) | Amount is less than $0.005. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of Disciplined Growth Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of Disciplined Growth Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
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Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
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Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
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Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
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Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
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Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was above its benchmark for the ten-year period and below its benchmark for the one-, three-, and five-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board discussed the Fund’s performance with the Advisor and was satisfied with the efforts being undertaken by the Advisor. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
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Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was above the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer group. The Board and the Advisor agreed to a temporary reduction of the Fund's annual unified management fee of 0.01% (e.g., the Investor Class unified fee will be reduced from 1.01% to 1.00%) for at least one year, beginning August 1, 2019.The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to
32
the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
33
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
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Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $1,302,961, or up to the maximum amount allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
The fund hereby designates $16,753,212 as qualified short-term capital gain distributions for purposes of Internal Revenue Code Section 871 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund hereby designates $71,636,871, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund utilized earnings and profits of $3,436,004 distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares as part of the dividends paid deduction (tax equalization).
35
Notes |
36
Notes |
37
Notes |
38
Notes |
39
Notes |
40
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92989 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
Equity Growth Fund | |
Investor Class (BEQGX) | |
I Class (AMEIX) | |
A Class (BEQAX) | |
C Class (AEYCX) | |
R Class (AEYRX) | |
R5 Class (AEYGX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
President's Letter | 2 | |
Performance | 3 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
President’s Letter |
Jonathan Thomas
Dear Investor:
Thank you for reviewing this annual report for the period ended June 30, 2019. Annual reports help convey important information about fund returns, including market factors that affected performance during the reporting period. For additional investment and market insights, we encourage you to visit our website, americancentury.com.
Markets Overcame Heightened Volatility
Most broad large- and mid-cap stock indices ended the 12-month period with gains. However, these positive results masked some severe volatility, which led to wide performance swings. For example, the S&P 500 Index returned -6.85% in the first half of the period and 18.54% in the second half, leaving the index up 10.42% for the year. Even more dramatic, the S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index returned -21.91% in the first half of the reporting period, 13.34% in the second half, and -11.49% overall.
Fed’s Flip Fueled Investor Optimism
In the first half, mounting concerns about slowing global economic and earnings growth and Federal Reserve (Fed) policy soured investor sentiment. After raising rates in September, the Fed hiked again in December and delivered a surprisingly hawkish rate-hike outlook that worried investors and fueled a steep sell-off among riskier assets. Meanwhile, the risk-off climate sparked a flight to quality. Treasury yields plunged, triggering a rally among perceived safe-haven assets.
The new year brought a renewed sense of stability to financial markets and a key policy pivot from the Fed. The central bank abruptly and unexpectedly ended its rate-hike campaign and adopted a dovish tone amid moderating global growth and inflation. Additionally, investors’ worst-case fears about growth, trade and corporate earnings eased. Equity valuations appeared attractive, and a rally ensued. At the same time, Treasury yields continued to fall on moderating global growth data, muted inflation and accommodative central bank policy, which supported continued gains for interest rate-sensitive assets.
Looking ahead, we expect volatility to remain a formidable factor as investors react to global growth and trade trends, central bank policy and geopolitical developments. We believe this scenario underscores the importance of using professionally managed portfolios in pursuit of your investment goals. We appreciate your continued trust and confidence in us.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Thomas
President and Chief Executive Officer
American Century Investments
2
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | ||||||
Average Annual Returns | ||||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | BEQGX | 7.21% | 8.53% | 13.67% | — | 5/9/91 |
S&P 500 Index | — | 10.42% | 10.71% | 14.69% | — | — |
I Class | AMEIX | 7.41% | 8.75% | 13.89% | — | 1/2/98 |
A Class | BEQAX | 10/9/97 | ||||
No sales charge | 6.96% | 8.27% | 13.39% | — | ||
With sales charge | 0.82% | 6.99% | 12.72% | — | ||
C Class | AEYCX | 6.17% | 7.46% | 12.54% | — | 7/18/01 |
R Class | AEYRX | 6.69% | 7.99% | 13.10% | — | 7/29/05 |
R5 Class | AEYGX | 7.44% | — | — | 11.62% | 4/10/17 |
Average annual returns since inception are presented when ten years of performance history is not available.
Sales charges include initial sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSCs), as applicable. A Class shares have a 5.75% maximum initial sales charge and may be subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. C Class shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase are subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. The SEC requires that mutual funds provide performance information net of maximum sales charges in all cases where charges could be applied.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
3
Growth of $10,000 Over 10 Years |
$10,000 investment made June 30, 2009 |
Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure. |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $36,029 | |
S&P 500 Index — $39,416 | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | |||||
Investor Class | I Class | A Class | C Class | R Class | R5 Class |
0.66% | 0.46% | 0.91% | 1.66% | 1.16% | 0.46% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
4
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Claudia Musat and Steven Rossi
Performance Summary
Equity Growth returned 7.21%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, compared with the 10.42% return of its benchmark, the S&P 500 Index.
Equity Growth advanced during the fiscal year, but underperformed its benchmark, the S&P 500 Index. Security selection in the real estate, communication services and consumer staples sectors detracted the most from fund performance, while stock choices in information technology and financials were most additive.
Stock Choices Across Several Sectors Detracted from Relative Returns
Stock choices in real estate and communication services were the largest detractors from the fund’s 12-month results. Our security selection within equity real estate investment trusts provided a headwind for returns. The leading detractor was Weyerhaeuser, a timberland management company, which suffered along with industrial and agricultural commodity prices amid concerns about global growth and trade disputes. We have since exited the stock. Selection within real estate management and development companies also detracted.
Security decisions within communication services hurt relative results as well. Within the entertainment industry, video game producer Electronic Arts was one of the largest individual detractors from overall performance. The share price fell after the company announced it would delay the release of an anticipated game and reduced its full-year earnings guidance. In the diversified telecommunication services industry, Verizon Communications was also among the top individual detractors. Costs have increased for many wireless carriers due to the implementation of 5G technology.
Stock choices in the consumer staples sector also weighed on returns, particularly within the personal products and beverages industries. A position in personal product company Edgewell Personal Care provided one of the larger headwinds to results, as shares fell in response to an acquisition announcement. Elsewhere in the sector, it hurt relative performance to be underrepresented in shares of The Procter & Gamble Co. Other top individual detractors for the year included luxury goods company Tapestry and energy company Halliburton. We eliminated our position in Halliburton.
Information Technology and Financials Were Additive
Positioning within the information technology sector was the largest tailwind to relative returns during the period. Software company VMware was one of the largest individual contributors, as the cloud solutions provider reported strength across multiple business segments and products. The company maintains high factor scores for quality, valuation and growth. Stock selection within electronic equipment, instruments and components also helped results. A position in electronic instrument and testing manufacturer Keysight Technologies was also among the top individual contributors after reporting better-than-expected results. The stock price rose throughout the second half of the period, and the company maintains high scores for sentiment, quality and growth.
*All fund returns referenced in this commentary are for Investor Class shares. Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure; when Investor Class performance exceeds that of the fund’s benchmark, other share classes may not. See page 3 for returns for all share classes.
5
Stock selection within the financials sector also bolstered performance. Positioning within the capital markets industry was beneficial, as it helped relative results to avoid several companies that lagged the broader market during the period. Selections within banks were also additive. Elsewhere in the markets, a position in outdoor clothing and footwear manufacturer Deckers Outdoor was among the top contributing stocks. The company beat earnings estimates and raised guidance several times throughout the period and maintains high scores across all four model factors. Automotive parts retailer AutoZone was also a top contributor for the 12 months and maintains high scores for sentiment and quality.
A Look Ahead
Our disciplined, objective and systematic investment strategy is designed to take advantage of opportunities at the individual company level. We believe this approach is the most powerful way to capitalize on market inefficiencies that lead to the mispricing of individual stocks. Our strategy is designed to provide investors with well-diversified and risk-managed exposure to broad U.S. equities. As such, we do not see significant deviations in sector weightings versus the S&P 500 Index. Nevertheless, we can point to select sectors and industries where we are finding more or less investment opportunity.
At period-end, information technology remains the largest sector in both absolute terms and relative to the benchmark. Software and communications equipment represent some of the most attractive industry groups we see. Consumer discretionary is also attractive, with textiles, apparel and luxury goods companies a significant overweight, followed by the internet and catalog retail industry group. Conversely, our utilities sector underweight position reflects a lack of opportunity in this area across most factors in the stock selection model, particularly within the electric utilities and multi-utilities industries. A relative lack of exposure to financials reflects the fact that we see a number of stocks in the capital markets and diversified financial services industries that do not score well across our models in the current environment.
6
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Holdings | % of net assets |
Microsoft Corp. | 4.3% |
Amazon.com, Inc. | 4.1% |
Apple, Inc. | 3.9% |
Alphabet, Inc., Class A | 3.4% |
Facebook, Inc., Class A | 2.7% |
JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 2.2% |
Visa, Inc., Class A | 2.0% |
Bank of America Corp. | 1.8% |
Chevron Corp. | 1.7% |
Verizon Communications, Inc. | 1.7% |
Top Five Industries | % of net assets |
Software | 8.6% |
Banks | 6.1% |
Interactive Media and Services | 6.1% |
Health Care Equipment and Supplies | 5.4% |
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail | 5.2% |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Common Stocks | 98.6% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 1.4% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | —* |
*Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets.
7
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
If you hold Investor Class shares of any American Century Investments fund, or I Class shares of the American Century Diversified Bond Fund, in an American Century Investments account (i.e., not a financial intermediary or retirement plan account), American Century Investments may charge you a $12.50 semiannual account maintenance fee if the value of those shares is less than $10,000. We will redeem shares automatically in one of your accounts to pay the $12.50 fee. In determining your total eligible investment amount, we will include your investments in all personal accounts (including American Century Investments Brokerage accounts) registered under your Social Security number. Personal accounts include individual accounts, joint accounts, UGMA/UTMA accounts, personal trusts, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and IRAs (including traditional, Roth, Rollover, SEP-, SARSEP- and SIMPLE-IRAs), and certain other retirement accounts. If you have only business, business retirement, employer-sponsored or American Century Investments Brokerage accounts, you are currently not subject to this fee. If you are subject to the Account Maintenance Fee, your account value could be reduced by the fee amount.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
8
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,182.80 | $3.63 | 0.67% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,183.70 | $2.54 | 0.47% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,181.70 | $4.98 | 0.92% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,177.40 | $9.02 | 1.67% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,180.20 | $6.32 | 1.17% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $1,184.00 | $2.55 | 0.47% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,021.47 | $3.36 | 0.67% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,022.46 | $2.36 | 0.47% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,020.23 | $4.61 | 0.92% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,016.51 | $8.35 | 1.67% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,018.99 | $5.86 | 1.17% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $1,022.46 | $2.36 | 0.47% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
9
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 98.6% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — 0.7% | ||||
Boeing Co. (The) | 2,352 | $ | 856,152 | |
Hexcel Corp. | 57,663 | 4,663,783 | ||
Raytheon Co. | 87,539 | 15,221,281 | ||
20,741,216 | ||||
Air Freight and Logistics — 0.8% | ||||
CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc. | 280,589 | 23,667,682 | ||
Banks — 6.1% | ||||
Bank of America Corp. | 1,759,479 | 51,024,891 | ||
Comerica, Inc. | 308,435 | 22,404,718 | ||
Fifth Third Bancorp | 214,879 | 5,995,124 | ||
JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 550,038 | 61,494,248 | ||
SunTrust Banks, Inc. | 254,870 | 16,018,580 | ||
Wells Fargo & Co. | 370,078 | 17,512,091 | ||
174,449,652 | ||||
Beverages — 2.4% | ||||
Coca-Cola Co. (The) | 603,767 | 30,743,815 | ||
PepsiCo, Inc. | 297,175 | 38,968,558 | ||
69,712,373 | ||||
Biotechnology — 2.6% | ||||
AbbVie, Inc. | 248,044 | 18,037,760 | ||
Amgen, Inc. | 110,070 | 20,283,699 | ||
Biogen, Inc.(1) | 50,590 | 11,831,483 | ||
Celgene Corp.(1) | 154,580 | 14,289,375 | ||
Gilead Sciences, Inc. | 43,569 | 2,943,522 | ||
Incyte Corp.(1) | 63,433 | 5,389,268 | ||
72,775,107 | ||||
Building Products — 1.0% | ||||
Johnson Controls International plc | 633,195 | 26,157,285 | ||
Masco Corp. | 63,194 | 2,479,733 | ||
28,637,018 | ||||
Capital Markets — 1.0% | ||||
Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc., Class A | 200,494 | 5,517,595 | ||
BGC Partners, Inc., Class A | 145,458 | 760,745 | ||
Evercore, Inc., Class A | 7,563 | 669,855 | ||
LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. | 224,303 | 18,296,396 | ||
TD Ameritrade Holding Corp. | 41,543 | 2,073,826 | ||
27,318,417 | ||||
Chemicals — 0.1% | ||||
CF Industries Holdings, Inc. | 37,415 | 1,747,655 | ||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 1.7% | ||||
Republic Services, Inc. | 270,127 | 23,403,803 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
Waste Management, Inc. | 224,847 | $ | 25,940,599 | |
49,344,402 | ||||
Communications Equipment — 2.7% | ||||
Cisco Systems, Inc. | 894,670 | 48,965,289 | ||
Juniper Networks, Inc. | 260,210 | 6,929,393 | ||
Motorola Solutions, Inc. | 131,825 | 21,979,182 | ||
77,873,864 | ||||
Consumer Finance — 1.8% | ||||
Discover Financial Services | 356,564 | 27,665,801 | ||
Synchrony Financial | 666,595 | 23,110,848 | ||
50,776,649 | ||||
Containers and Packaging — 0.8% | ||||
Packaging Corp. of America | 227,189 | 21,655,655 | ||
Diversified Financial Services — 0.9% | ||||
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B(1) | 122,941 | 26,207,333 | ||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 1.9% | ||||
AT&T, Inc. | 172,686 | 5,786,708 | ||
Verizon Communications, Inc. | 861,552 | 49,220,466 | ||
55,007,174 | ||||
Electric Utilities — 0.1% | ||||
Exelon Corp. | 82,745 | 3,966,795 | ||
Electrical Equipment — 0.4% | ||||
Rockwell Automation, Inc. | 75,298 | 12,336,071 | ||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 1.3% | ||||
CDW Corp. | 80,285 | 8,911,635 | ||
FLIR Systems, Inc. | 43,325 | 2,343,882 | ||
Keysight Technologies, Inc.(1) | 253,979 | 22,809,854 | ||
National Instruments Corp. | 46,399 | 1,948,294 | ||
36,013,665 | ||||
Entertainment — 2.3% | ||||
Activision Blizzard, Inc. | 533,588 | 25,185,353 | ||
Electronic Arts, Inc.(1) | 261,368 | 26,466,124 | ||
Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.(1) | 60,105 | 6,823,721 | ||
Walt Disney Co. (The) | 54,699 | 7,638,168 | ||
66,113,366 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 1.7% | ||||
Brixmor Property Group, Inc. | 79,524 | 1,421,889 | ||
CareTrust REIT, Inc. | 76,661 | 1,822,999 | ||
GEO Group, Inc. (The) | 612,131 | 12,860,872 | ||
Healthcare Trust of America, Inc., Class A | 758,365 | 20,801,952 | ||
Life Storage, Inc. | 133,235 | 12,667,984 | ||
49,575,696 | ||||
Food Products — 2.1% | ||||
Campbell Soup Co. | 244,268 | 9,787,819 | ||
General Mills, Inc. | 462,153 | 24,272,276 | ||
Hershey Co. (The) | 199,781 | 26,776,647 | ||
60,836,742 |
11
Shares | Value | |||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 5.4% | ||||
Danaher Corp. | 263,283 | $ | 37,628,406 | |
DexCom, Inc.(1) | 56,280 | 8,432,995 | ||
Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. | 133,160 | 13,931,199 | ||
Hologic, Inc.(1) | 132,230 | 6,349,685 | ||
Integer Holdings Corp.(1) | 111,288 | 9,339,289 | ||
Medtronic plc | 412,266 | 40,150,586 | ||
NuVasive, Inc.(1) | 57,635 | 3,373,953 | ||
STERIS plc(1) | 43,645 | 6,497,868 | ||
Stryker Corp. | 141,147 | 29,017,000 | ||
154,720,981 | ||||
Health Care Providers and Services — 0.7% | ||||
Amedisys, Inc.(1) | 83,351 | 10,119,645 | ||
Encompass Health Corp. | 22,468 | 1,423,573 | ||
HealthEquity, Inc.(1) | 30,360 | 1,985,544 | ||
UnitedHealth Group, Inc. | 25,627 | 6,253,244 | ||
19,782,006 | ||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 2.5% | ||||
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.(1) | 15,568 | 11,409,476 | ||
Darden Restaurants, Inc. | 212,941 | 25,921,308 | ||
Starbucks Corp. | 387,723 | 32,502,819 | ||
69,833,603 | ||||
Household Durables — 0.2% | ||||
Newell Brands, Inc. | 405,877 | 6,258,623 | ||
Household Products — 0.9% | ||||
Colgate-Palmolive Co. | 212,078 | 15,199,630 | ||
Procter & Gamble Co. (The) | 104,915 | 11,503,930 | ||
26,703,560 | ||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.3% | ||||
NRG Energy, Inc. | 256,981 | 9,025,173 | ||
Insurance — 1.2% | ||||
Mercury General Corp. | 107,013 | 6,688,313 | ||
Progressive Corp. (The) | 342,285 | 27,358,840 | ||
34,047,153 | ||||
Interactive Media and Services — 6.1% | ||||
Alphabet, Inc., Class A(1) | 89,857 | 97,297,160 | ||
Facebook, Inc., Class A(1) | 389,068 | 75,090,124 | ||
172,387,284 | ||||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 5.2% | ||||
Amazon.com, Inc.(1) | 61,593 | 116,634,353 | ||
eBay, Inc. | 783,803 | 30,960,218 | ||
147,594,571 | ||||
IT Services — 4.9% | ||||
Akamai Technologies, Inc.(1) | 314,574 | 25,209,960 | ||
Amdocs Ltd. | 8,992 | 558,313 | ||
EVERTEC, Inc. | 119,151 | 3,896,238 | ||
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 103,295 | 27,324,626 |
12
Shares | Value | |||
PayPal Holdings, Inc.(1) | 213,161 | $ | 24,398,408 | |
Visa, Inc., Class A | 328,945 | 57,088,405 | ||
138,475,950 | ||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 3.1% | ||||
Agilent Technologies, Inc. | 293,127 | 21,887,793 | ||
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Class A(1) | 22,917 | 7,163,625 | ||
Illumina, Inc.(1) | 53,052 | 19,531,094 | ||
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. | 139,501 | 40,968,654 | ||
89,551,166 | ||||
Machinery — 1.9% | ||||
Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. | 347,482 | 16,105,791 | ||
Cummins, Inc. | 117,071 | 20,058,945 | ||
Snap-on, Inc. | 109,832 | 18,192,572 | ||
54,357,308 | ||||
Metals and Mining — 0.8% | ||||
Steel Dynamics, Inc. | 743,177 | 22,443,945 | ||
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 0.2% | ||||
Starwood Property Trust, Inc. | 201,428 | 4,576,444 | ||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 4.7% | ||||
Chevron Corp. | 399,182 | 49,674,208 | ||
ConocoPhillips | 24,688 | 1,505,968 | ||
CVR Energy, Inc. | 373,697 | 18,681,113 | ||
Delek US Holdings, Inc. | 121,024 | 4,903,893 | ||
Exxon Mobil Corp. | 206,926 | 15,856,739 | ||
HollyFrontier Corp. | 260,654 | 12,063,067 | ||
Occidental Petroleum Corp. | 79,386 | 3,991,528 | ||
Phillips 66 | 291,910 | 27,305,262 | ||
133,981,778 | ||||
Paper and Forest Products — 0.7% | ||||
Domtar Corp. | 423,276 | 18,848,480 | ||
Personal Products — 0.4% | ||||
Edgewell Personal Care Co.(1) | 115,264 | 3,106,365 | ||
Herbalife Nutrition Ltd.(1) | 160,312 | 6,854,941 | ||
9,961,306 | ||||
Pharmaceuticals — 4.4% | ||||
Allergan plc | 84,940 | 14,221,504 | ||
Eli Lilly & Co. | 48,479 | 5,370,989 | ||
Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc(1) | 47,815 | 6,816,506 | ||
Johnson & Johnson | 336,458 | 46,861,870 | ||
Merck & Co., Inc. | 213,289 | 17,884,283 | ||
Pfizer, Inc. | 480,790 | 20,827,823 | ||
Zoetis, Inc. | 115,176 | 13,071,324 | ||
125,054,299 | ||||
Professional Services — 1.3% | ||||
CoStar Group, Inc.(1) | 43,184 | 23,926,527 | ||
Korn Ferry | 33,250 | 1,332,328 |
13
Shares | Value | |||
Robert Half International, Inc. | 204,705 | $ | 11,670,232 | |
36,929,087 | ||||
Real Estate Management and Development — 0.1% | ||||
Jones Lang LaSalle, Inc. | 18,330 | 2,578,848 | ||
Road and Rail — 0.9% | ||||
CSX Corp. | 338,973 | 26,226,341 | ||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 2.9% | ||||
Broadcom, Inc. | 123,673 | 35,600,510 | ||
Intel Corp. | 515,721 | 24,687,564 | ||
QUALCOMM, Inc. | 139,032 | 10,576,164 | ||
Xilinx, Inc. | 94,984 | 11,200,514 | ||
82,064,752 | ||||
Software — 8.6% | ||||
Adobe, Inc.(1) | 136,761 | 40,296,628 | ||
Intuit, Inc. | 124,231 | 32,465,287 | ||
LogMeIn, Inc. | 36,007 | 2,652,996 | ||
Microsoft Corp. | 920,845 | 123,356,396 | ||
Oracle Corp. (New York) | 491,742 | 28,014,542 | ||
VMware, Inc., Class A | 112,266 | 18,771,998 | ||
245,557,847 | ||||
Specialty Retail — 2.4% | ||||
AutoZone, Inc.(1) | 22,042 | 24,234,518 | ||
Murphy USA, Inc.(1) | 70,843 | 5,952,937 | ||
O'Reilly Automotive, Inc.(1) | 67,720 | 25,010,351 | ||
Ross Stores, Inc. | 118,445 | 11,740,268 | ||
66,938,074 | ||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals — 3.9% | ||||
Apple, Inc. | 559,733 | 110,782,355 | ||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 2.1% | ||||
Deckers Outdoor Corp.(1) | 129,543 | 22,795,682 | ||
NIKE, Inc., Class B | 383,793 | 32,219,422 | ||
Tapestry, Inc. | 141,065 | 4,475,993 | ||
59,491,097 | ||||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — 0.3% | ||||
Essent Group Ltd.(1) | 176,236 | 8,281,330 | ||
Transportation Infrastructure — 0.1% | ||||
Macquarie Infrastructure Corp. | 58,146 | 2,357,239 | ||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $2,077,581,416) | 2,807,567,132 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 1.4% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $33,843,169), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $33,234,566) | 33,228,336 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.375%, 7/15/27, valued at $6,435,485), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $6,307,657) | 6,307,000 |
14
Shares | Value | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 56,070 | $ | 56,070 | |
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $39,591,406) | 39,591,406 | |||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES — 100.0% (Cost $2,117,172,822) | 2,847,158,538 | |||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES† | 253,508 | |||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 2,847,412,046 |
FUTURES CONTRACTS PURCHASED | |||||||||||
Reference Entity | Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount | Underlying Contract Value | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||
S&P 500 E-Mini | 174 | September 2019 | $ | 8,700 | $ | 25,614,540 | $ | 428,204 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
† | Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets. |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
15
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $2,117,172,822) | $ | 2,847,158,538 | |
Deposits with broker for futures contracts | 1,096,200 | ||
Receivable for capital shares sold | 309,549 | ||
Receivable for variation margin on futures contracts | 115,710 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 2,069,520 | ||
2,850,749,517 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 13,533 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 1,846,729 | ||
Accrued management fees | 1,446,298 | ||
Distribution and service fees payable | 30,911 | ||
3,337,471 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 2,847,412,046 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 2,030,337,871 | |
Distributable earnings | 817,074,175 | ||
$ | 2,847,412,046 |
Net Assets | Shares Outstanding | Net Asset Value Per Share | ||||
Investor Class, $0.01 Par Value | $2,289,532,185 | 72,151,926 | $31.73 | |||
I Class, $0.01 Par Value | $445,933,394 | 14,038,903 | $31.76 | |||
A Class, $0.01 Par Value | $81,085,829 | 2,559,017 | $31.69* | |||
C Class, $0.01 Par Value | $7,378,042 | 235,456 | $31.34 | |||
R Class, $0.01 Par Value | $21,413,107 | 675,369 | $31.71 | |||
R5 Class, $0.01 Par Value | $2,069,489 | 65,141 | $31.77 |
*Maximum offering price $33.62 (net asset value divided by 0.9425).
See Notes to Financial Statements.
16
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends | $ | 54,960,286 | |
Interest | 599,365 | ||
55,559,651 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Management fees | 18,417,918 | ||
Distribution and service fees: | |||
A Class | 211,678 | ||
C Class | 84,247 | ||
R Class | 112,086 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 205,638 | ||
Other expenses | 16,617 | ||
19,048,184 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 36,511,467 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | 186,974,828 | ||
Futures contract transactions | 1,969,206 | ||
188,944,034 | |||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments | (39,133,229 | ) | |
Futures contracts | 428,204 | ||
(38,705,025 | ) | ||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 150,239,009 | ||
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | 186,750,476 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
17
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 36,511,467 | $ | 41,879,329 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | 188,944,034 | 294,153,097 | ||||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (38,705,025 | ) | 128,926,557 | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 186,750,476 | 464,958,983 | ||||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings:(1) | ||||||
Investor Class | (265,255,033 | ) | (246,393,955 | ) | ||
I Class | (46,413,839 | ) | (43,061,358 | ) | ||
A Class | (8,778,046 | ) | (9,689,982 | ) | ||
C Class | (838,751 | ) | (1,051,547 | ) | ||
R Class | (2,368,400 | ) | (1,977,467 | ) | ||
R5 Class | (213,507 | ) | (73,675 | ) | ||
Decrease in net assets from distributions | (323,867,576 | ) | (302,247,984 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions (Note 5) | (93,176,001 | ) | (259,690,200 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (230,293,101 | ) | (96,979,201 | ) | ||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 3,077,705,147 | 3,174,684,348 | ||||
End of period | $ | 2,847,412,046 | $ | 3,077,705,147 |
(1) | Prior period presentation has been updated to reflect the current period combination of distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains. Distributions from net investment income were $(31,401,314), $(6,265,397), $(1,028,392), $(29,746), $(196,109) and $(10,135) for Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class, respectively. Distributions from net realized gains were $(214,992,641), $(36,795,961), $(8,661,590), $(1,021,801), $(1,781,358) and $(63,540) for Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class, respectively. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
18
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. Equity Growth Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital growth by investing in common stocks.
The fund offers the Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class. The A Class may incur an initial sales charge. The A Class and C Class may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. Exchange-traded futures contracts are valued at the settlement price as provided by the appropriate exchange.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
19
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Segregated Assets — In accordance with the 1940 Act, the fund segregates assets on its books and records to cover certain types of investment securities and other financial instruments. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities segregated to ensure the fund designates a sufficient amount of liquid assets, marked-to-market daily. The fund may also receive assets or be required to pledge assets at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Multiple Class — All shares of the fund represent an equal pro rata interest in the net assets of the class to which such shares belong, and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the fund are allocated to each class of shares based on their relative net assets.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid quarterly. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually. The fund may elect to treat a portion of its payment to a redeeming shareholder, which represents the pro rata share of undistributed net investment income and net realized gains, as a distribution for federal income tax purposes (tax equalization).
20
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS), and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC. Various funds issued by American Century Asset Allocation Portfolios, Inc. own, in aggregate, 17% of the shares of the fund.
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee) per class. The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except distribution and service fees, brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on each class's daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The difference in the fee among the classes is a result of their separate arrangements for non-Rule 12b-1 shareholder services. It is not the result of any difference in advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the fund's assets, which do not vary by class. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The Investment Category Fee range, the Complex Fee range and the effective annual management fee for each class for the period ended June 30, 2019 are as follows:
Investment Category Fee Range | Complex Fee Range | Effective Annual Management Fee | |
Investor Class | 0.3380% to 0.5200% | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% |
I Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.46% | |
A Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% | |
C Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% | |
R Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% | |
R5 Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.46% |
Distribution and Service Fees — The Board of Directors has adopted a separate Master Distribution and Individual Shareholder Services Plan for each of the A Class, C Class and R Class (collectively the plans), pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act. The plans provide that the A Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.25%. The plans provide that the C Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 1.00%, of which 0.25% is paid for individual shareholder services and 0.75% is paid for distribution services. The plans provide that the R Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.50%. The fees are computed and accrued daily based on each class’s daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The fees are used to pay financial intermediaries for distribution and individual shareholder services. Fees incurred under the plans during the period ended June 30, 2019 are detailed in the Statement of Operations.
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $41,775,584 and $11,646,087, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $(191,685) in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
21
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $2,318,727,857 and $2,697,496,897, respectively.
5. Capital Share Transactions
Transactions in shares of the fund were as follows:
Year ended June 30, 2019 | Year ended June 30, 2018 | |||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||
Investor Class/Shares Authorized | 680,000,000 | 680,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 5,221,355 | $ | 166,954,910 | 5,332,130 | $ | 176,276,961 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 9,151,538 | 260,741,084 | 7,487,792 | 242,830,271 | ||||||
Redeemed | (18,886,278 | ) | (581,731,249 | ) | (16,133,813 | ) | (536,282,918 | ) | ||
(4,513,385 | ) | (154,035,255 | ) | (3,313,891 | ) | (117,175,686 | ) | |||
I Class/Shares Authorized | 120,000,000 | 120,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 4,112,238 | 136,248,140 | 2,342,307 | 79,141,119 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 1,610,269 | 46,027,392 | 1,289,658 | 41,897,285 | ||||||
Redeemed | (3,449,137 | ) | (111,171,558 | ) | (6,678,723 | ) | (221,437,781 | ) | ||
2,273,370 | 71,103,974 | (3,046,758 | ) | (100,399,377 | ) | |||||
A Class/Shares Authorized | 45,000,000 | 45,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 452,590 | 14,223,425 | 421,446 | 14,067,450 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 275,610 | 7,829,884 | 270,453 | 8,749,209 | ||||||
Redeemed | (922,614 | ) | (29,222,799 | ) | (1,621,912 | ) | (54,197,067 | ) | ||
(194,414 | ) | (7,169,490 | ) | (930,013 | ) | (31,380,408 | ) | |||
C Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 24,278 | 771,743 | 23,907 | 790,510 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 28,679 | 800,283 | 31,653 | 1,011,259 | ||||||
Redeemed | (156,576 | ) | (5,055,558 | ) | (90,399 | ) | (2,995,989 | ) | ||
(103,619 | ) | (3,483,532 | ) | (34,839 | ) | (1,194,220 | ) | |||
R Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 158,901 | 5,028,068 | 242,105 | 8,043,308 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 83,539 | 2,368,370 | 61,122 | 1,977,467 | ||||||
Redeemed | (244,147 | ) | (7,563,285 | ) | (631,699 | ) | (21,132,880 | ) | ||
(1,707 | ) | (166,847 | ) | (328,472 | ) | (11,112,105 | ) | |||
R5 Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 41,111 | 1,351,155 | 44,805 | 1,518,831 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 7,472 | 213,507 | 2,265 | 73,675 | ||||||
Redeemed | (30,051 | ) | (989,513 | ) | (622 | ) | (20,910 | ) | ||
18,532 | 575,149 | 46,448 | 1,571,596 | |||||||
Net increase (decrease) | (2,521,223 | ) | $ | (93,176,001 | ) | (7,607,525 | ) | $ | (259,690,200 | ) |
22
6. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 2,807,567,132 | — | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 56,070 | $ | 39,535,336 | — | ||||
$ | 2,807,623,202 | $ | 39,535,336 | — | ||||
Other Financial Instruments | ||||||||
Futures Contracts | $ | 428,204 | — | — |
7. Derivative Instruments
Equity Price Risk — The fund is subject to equity price risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. A fund may enter into futures contracts based on an equity index in order to manage its exposure to changes in market conditions. A fund may purchase futures contracts to gain exposure to increases in market value or sell futures contracts to protect against a decline in market value. Upon entering into a futures contract, a fund is required to deposit either cash or securities in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract value (initial margin). Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received daily, in cash, by a fund. The variation margin is equal to the daily change in the contract value and is recorded as unrealized gains and losses. A fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when the contract is closed or expires. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of futures contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts, respectively. One of the risks of entering into futures contracts is the possibility that the change in value of the contract may not correlate with the changes in value of the underlying securities. The fund's average notional exposure to equity price risk derivative instruments held during the period was $8,367 futures contracts purchased.
The value of equity price risk derivative instruments as of June 30, 2019, is disclosed on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an asset of $115,710 in receivable for variation margin on futures contracts*. For the year ended June 30, 2019, the effect of equity price risk derivative instruments on the Statement of Operations was $1,969,206 in net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and $428,204 in change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts.
* Included in the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments.
23
8. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 102,578,649 | $ | 109,701,359 | ||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 221,288,927 | $ | 192,546,625 |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 2,119,893,315 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 756,951,716 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (29,686,493 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | $ | 727,265,223 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | — | ||
Accumulated long-term gains | $ | 134,427,461 | |
Post-October capital loss deferral | $ | (44,618,509 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
Loss deferrals represent certain qualified losses that the fund has elected to treat as having been incurred in the following fiscal year for federal income tax purposes.
24
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $33.36 | 0.39 | 1.56 | 1.95 | (0.37) | (3.21) | (3.58) | $31.73 | 7.21% | 0.67% | 1.23% | 80% | $2,289,532 | ||
2018 | $31.79 | 0.43 | 4.40 | 4.83 | (0.40) | (2.86) | (3.26) | $33.36 | 15.62% | 0.66% | 1.30% | 84% | $2,557,773 | ||
2017 | $27.44 | 0.40 | 4.50 | 4.90 | (0.40) | (0.15) | (0.55) | $31.79 | 17.99% | 0.67% | 1.34% | 85% | $2,542,710 | ||
2016 | $30.56 | 0.41 | (1.29) | (0.88) | (0.40) | (1.84) | (2.24) | $27.44 | (2.78)% | 0.67% | 1.45% | 91% | $2,488,951 | ||
2015 | $32.75 | 0.46 | 1.37 | 1.83 | (0.43) | (3.59) | (4.02) | $30.56 | 5.93% | 0.67% | 1.45% | 86% | $2,886,976 | ||
I Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $33.39 | 0.45 | 1.56 | 2.01 | (0.43) | (3.21) | (3.64) | $31.76 | 7.41% | 0.47% | 1.43% | 80% | $445,933 | ||
2018 | $31.82 | 0.50 | 4.40 | 4.90 | (0.47) | (2.86) | (3.33) | $33.39 | 15.87% | 0.46% | 1.50% | 84% | $392,859 | ||
2017 | $27.46 | 0.46 | 4.51 | 4.97 | (0.46) | (0.15) | (0.61) | $31.82 | 18.21% | 0.47% | 1.54% | 85% | $471,260 | ||
2016 | $30.58 | 0.46 | (1.29) | (0.83) | (0.45) | (1.84) | (2.29) | $27.46 | (2.58)% | 0.47% | 1.65% | 91% | $453,858 | ||
2015 | $32.77 | 0.53 | 1.37 | 1.90 | (0.50) | (3.59) | (4.09) | $30.58 | 6.13% | 0.47% | 1.65% | 86% | $497,333 | ||
A Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $33.32 | 0.31 | 1.57 | 1.88 | (0.30) | (3.21) | (3.51) | $31.69 | 6.96% | 0.92% | 0.98% | 80% | $81,086 | ||
2018 | $31.76 | 0.35 | 4.39 | 4.74 | (0.32) | (2.86) | (3.18) | $33.32 | 15.32% | 0.91% | 1.05% | 84% | $91,750 | ||
2017 | $27.41 | 0.32 | 4.50 | 4.82 | (0.32) | (0.15) | (0.47) | $31.76 | 17.71% | 0.92% | 1.09% | 85% | $116,980 | ||
2016 | $30.53 | 0.33 | (1.29) | (0.96) | (0.32) | (1.84) | (2.16) | $27.41 | (3.03)% | 0.92% | 1.20% | 91% | $144,365 | ||
2015 | $32.72 | 0.38 | 1.37 | 1.75 | (0.35) | (3.59) | (3.94) | $30.53 | 5.67% | 0.92% | 1.20% | 86% | $195,262 |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
C Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $33.00 | 0.07 | 1.55 | 1.62 | (0.07) | (3.21) | (3.28) | $31.34 | 6.17% | 1.67% | 0.23% | 80% | $7,378 | ||
2018 | $31.50 | 0.10 | 4.34 | 4.44 | (0.08) | (2.86) | (2.94) | $33.00 | 14.48% | 1.66% | 0.30% | 84% | $11,191 | ||
2017 | $27.19 | 0.10 | 4.46 | 4.56 | (0.10) | (0.15) | (0.25) | $31.50 | 16.78% | 1.67% | 0.34% | 85% | $11,777 | ||
2016 | $30.29 | 0.12 | (1.27) | (1.15) | (0.11) | (1.84) | (1.95) | $27.19 | (3.73)% | 1.67% | 0.45% | 91% | $12,542 | ||
2015 | $32.50 | 0.15 | 1.35 | 1.50 | (0.12) | (3.59) | (3.71) | $30.29 | 4.87% | 1.67% | 0.45% | 86% | $16,342 | ||
R Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $33.34 | 0.23 | 1.57 | 1.80 | (0.22) | (3.21) | (3.43) | $31.71 | 6.69% | 1.17% | 0.73% | 80% | $21,413 | ||
2018 | $31.78 | 0.28 | 4.37 | 4.65 | (0.23) | (2.86) | (3.09) | $33.34 | 15.06% | 1.16% | 0.80% | 84% | $22,576 | ||
2017 | $27.43 | 0.25 | 4.50 | 4.75 | (0.25) | (0.15) | (0.40) | $31.78 | 17.37% | 1.17% | 0.84% | 85% | $31,953 | ||
2016 | $30.54 | 0.27 | (1.29) | (1.02) | (0.25) | (1.84) | (2.09) | $27.43 | (3.24)% | 1.17% | 0.95% | 91% | $28,535 | ||
2015 | $32.74 | 0.32 | 1.35 | 1.67 | (0.28) | (3.59) | (3.87) | $30.54 | 5.38% | 1.17% | 0.95% | 86% | $30,271 | ||
R5 Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $33.39 | 0.45 | 1.57 | 2.02 | (0.43) | (3.21) | (3.64) | $31.77 | 7.44% | 0.47% | 1.43% | 80% | $2,069 | ||
2018 | $31.82 | 0.43 | 4.47 | 4.90 | (0.47) | (2.86) | (3.33) | $33.39 | 15.83% | 0.46% | 1.50% | 84% | $1,556 | ||
2017(3) | $31.12 | 0.11 | 0.69 | 0.80 | (0.10) | — | (0.10) | $31.82 | 2.58% | 0.47%(4) | 1.60%(4) | 85%(5) | $5 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day and do not reflect applicable sales charges, if any. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
(3) | April 10, 2017 (commencement of sale) through June 30, 2017. |
(4) | Annualized. |
(5) | Portfolio turnover is calculated at the fund level. Percentage indicated was calculated for the year ended June 30, 2017. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of Equity Growth Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of Equity Growth Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
28
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
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Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
30
Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
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Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
32
Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was below its benchmark for the one-, three-, five-, and ten-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
33
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer group. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
34
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
35
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
36
Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $57,169,271, or up to the maximum amount allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
The fund hereby designates $67,622,524 as qualified short-term capital gain distributions for purposes of Internal Revenue Code Section 871 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund hereby designates $227,096,856, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund utilized earnings and profits of $6,888,618 distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares as part of the dividends paid deduction (tax equalization).
37
Notes |
38
Notes |
39
Notes |
40
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92990 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
Global Gold Fund | |
Investor Class (BGEIX) | |
I Class (AGGNX) | |
A Class (ACGGX) | |
C Class (AGYCX) | |
R Class (AGGWX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
President's Letter | 2 | |
Performance | 3 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
President’s Letter |
Jonathan Thomas
Dear Investor:
Thank you for reviewing this annual report for the period ended June 30, 2019. Annual reports help convey important information about fund returns, including market factors that affected performance during the reporting period. For additional investment and market insights, we encourage you to visit our website, americancentury.com.
Markets Overcame Heightened Volatility
Most broad large- and mid-cap stock indices ended the 12-month period with gains. However, these positive results masked some severe volatility, which led to wide performance swings. For example, the S&P 500 Index returned -6.85% in the first half of the period and 18.54% in the second half, leaving the index up 10.42% for the year. Even more dramatic, the S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index returned -21.91% in the first half of the reporting period, 13.34% in the second half, and -11.49% overall.
Fed’s Flip Fueled Investor Optimism
In the first half, mounting concerns about slowing global economic and earnings growth and Federal Reserve (Fed) policy soured investor sentiment. After raising rates in September, the Fed hiked again in December and delivered a surprisingly hawkish rate-hike outlook that worried investors and fueled a steep sell-off among riskier assets. Meanwhile, the risk-off climate sparked a flight to quality. Treasury yields plunged, triggering a rally among perceived safe-haven assets.
The new year brought a renewed sense of stability to financial markets and a key policy pivot from the Fed. The central bank abruptly and unexpectedly ended its rate-hike campaign and adopted a dovish tone amid moderating global growth and inflation. Additionally, investors’ worst-case fears about growth, trade and corporate earnings eased. Equity valuations appeared attractive, and a rally ensued. At the same time, Treasury yields continued to fall on moderating global growth data, muted inflation and accommodative central bank policy, which supported continued gains for interest rate-sensitive assets.
Looking ahead, we expect volatility to remain a formidable factor as investors react to global growth and trade trends, central bank policy and geopolitical developments. We believe this scenario underscores the importance of using professionally managed portfolios in pursuit of your investment goals. We appreciate your continued trust and confidence in us.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Thomas
President and Chief Executive Officer
American Century Investments
2
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | |||||
Average Annual Returns | |||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | BGEIX | 13.75% | 0.28% | -1.67% | 8/17/88 |
NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index | — | 16.62% | 0.68% | -2.60% | — |
MSCI World Index | — | 6.33% | 6.60% | 10.71% | — |
I Class | AGGNX | 13.96% | 0.48% | -1.47% | 9/28/07 |
A Class | ACGGX | 5/6/98 | |||
No sales charge | 13.57% | 0.02% | -1.91% | ||
With sales charge | 7.07% | -1.16% | -2.49% | ||
C Class | AGYCX | 12.58% | -0.72% | -2.64% | 9/28/07 |
R Class | AGGWX | 13.22% | -0.22% | -2.15% | 9/28/07 |
Sales charges include initial sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSCs), as applicable. A Class shares have a 5.75% maximum initial sales charge and may be subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. C Class shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase are subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. The SEC requires that mutual funds provide performance information net of maximum sales charges in all cases where charges could be applied.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
3
Growth of $10,000 Over 10 Years |
$10,000 investment made June 30, 2009 |
Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure. |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $8,451 | |
NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index — $7,687 | |
MSCI World Index — $27,676 | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | ||||
Investor Class | I Class | A Class | C Class | R Class |
0.67% | 0.47% | 0.92% | 1.67% | 1.17% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
4
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Yulin Long and Elizabeth Xie
Performance Summary
Global Gold returned 13.75%* for the 12 months ended June 30, 2019. The portfolio’s benchmark, the NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index, gained 16.62%. The fund’s return reflects operating expenses, while the benchmark’s return does not. By comparison, the MSCI World Index, a broad measure of global equity market performance, returned 6.33%.
Gold Price Increased Amid Stronger Demand from Central Banks
Gold prices gained during the period, initially dropping below $1,180 per ounce in August 2018, before rallying to finish June 2019 above $1,400. The increase in prices reflected stronger demand at a time when gold supply was essentially unchanged year over year through the first quarter of 2019, the latest period for which data were available. Mine production inched up, while net hedging declined. On the one hand, the prospect of higher prices ahead reduces the incentive for companies to hedge production forward. However, when prices surge and the outlook for pricing is uncertain, then producers may elect to hedge production to lock in current high prices. This happened during the period as the price of gold reached a record high in Australian dollar terms, so many Australian producers hedged a portion of their production forward. Add it all up, and net producer hedging decreased year over year through the first quarter.
While supply was flat, demand for the precious metal rose, driven largely by central bank buying. According to the World Gold Council, central banks bought more gold in 2018 than in any calendar year since the 1970s. This marks a sea-change in central banks’ approach to gold as a reserve asset after decades of net central bank sales. Investment demand for gold also increased, reflecting rising investor interest in gold-backed exchange-traded funds. Lower interest rates around the globe also reduced the appeal of cash and bonds as interest-bearing assets in competition with gold. It was significant that gold demand rose at the same time the U.S. dollar generally strengthened. Gold is priced in dollars, so a stronger dollar makes gold more expensive for foreign buyers. Finally, jewelry demand inched up from the prior year thanks to a recovery in demand from India.
Looking at the stocks of gold companies, profitability increased along with the rise in the price of the underlying metal. In addition, there was a wave of consolidation as companies sought to increase output, gain efficiencies, reduce costs and spread the risk of new developments. For example, Newmont Mining and Goldcorp merged in April 2019 to form the world’s largest gold producer. This followed the merger of Barrick Gold and Randgold Resources in January 2019. Later, Newmont Goldcorp and Barrick announced a joint partnership to develop a large mining project in Nevada.
Key Contributors
Kirkland Lake Gold was once again the leading contributor to relative performance. The Canadian-based miner reported excellent results and raised its dividend during the period. The company enjoys some of the lowest production costs in the industry and continues to increase mine output, benefiting from a key acquisition in recent years.
* All fund returns referenced in this commentary are for Investor Class shares. Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structures; when Investor Class performance exceeds that of the fund’s benchmark, other share classes may not. See page 3 for returns for all share classes.
5
A number of other notable contributors to relative results came from poor-performing gold miners to which we had little or no exposure. Hecla Mining, New Gold and Coeur Mining are good examples of stocks represented in the benchmark which we avoided. Hecla suffered amid regulatory and permitting delays at two big new developments; New Gold disappointed investors after announcing increasing production costs associated with a big capital investment program; and Coeur reported unexpected losses.
Notable Detractors
Barrick Gold was among our largest absolute positions and performed fairly well, but our positioning during the year meant our allocation slightly underperformed. The company produced significant revenue and earnings gains following the merger with Randgold Resources, and we continue to hold a sizable stake in the stock. Similarly, Newmont Goldcorp was our largest absolute weight and we believe it is well positioned going forward, but it underperformed during the reporting period.
Other notable detractors were Guyana Goldfields, Fortuna Silver Mines and Orezone Gold. These were modest overweight positions relative to the benchmark that underperformed. Guyana suffered from reduced output of lower-grade ore; Fortuna underperformed amid production delays at a new mining project; and Orezone lagged despite progress on its single project in development.
Portfolio Positioning
We continue to hold a positive long-term outlook for gold, though we acknowledge that after a sharp recent rally, the near-term outlook is mixed. The recent surge in gold prices reflects safe-haven demand amid a high degree of political and economic uncertainty. For example, political tension around the globe is increasing as trade disputes and isolationist policies threaten the global free trade regime. The World Economic Forum "Global Risks Report 2019" cites geopolitical and geoeconomic tensions as among the world’s leading risks. In addition, strong central bank demand reflects a desire by some central banks to be less dependent upon the U.S. dollar as a reserve asset. This is a function of rising political and fiscal dysfunction within the U.S. political system, as evidenced by the unprecedented government shutdown spanning late 2018 and early 2019, and the surging national debt and budget deficit. Finally, global central banks have returned to a bias toward lower interest rates at a time when real interest rates (stated interest rates minus the rate of inflation) are already negative in much of the developed world. Negative real rates and excessive debt levels are typically associated with inflation.
What’s more, gold’s price is at or near all-time highs in some local currencies, which could weigh on demand. In addition, global economic growth appears to be slowing, which could reduce jewelry demand in key markets such as China and India. Having said that, we don’t see a letup in political and market uncertainty anytime soon, so expect safe-haven demand to remain supportive for the foreseeable future.
In terms of the stocks of gold producers, valuations are increasingly attractive as a rising gold price directly translates into higher values for deposits in the ground. The stocks of gold miners did outperform the S&P 500 Index during the period, but we believe there is still room to do well relative to the broader market after an extended period of underperformance. In addition, we are encouraged by the significant consolidation we’ve seen in the sector, which suggests companies are focused on controlling costs and managing risk associated with new developments. Add it all up, and we continue to believe that a small allocation to gold and gold company stocks as part of a larger portfolio can help improve a portfolio’s diversification and risk-adjusted return over time.
6
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Holdings | % of net assets |
Newmont Goldcorp Corp.* | 13.0% |
Barrick Gold Corp. | 9.0% |
Kirkland Lake Gold Ltd. | 6.8% |
Newcrest Mining Ltd. | 6.3% |
Franco-Nevada Corp. (New York) | 5.3% |
AngloGold Ashanti Ltd.* | 5.0% |
Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd.* | 4.7% |
Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. | 3.8% |
Royal Gold, Inc. | 3.4% |
Northern Star Resources Ltd. | 3.0% |
*Includes shares traded on all exchanges. | |
Geographic Composition | % of net assets |
Canada | 50.0% |
Australia | 17.0% |
United States | 16.4% |
South Africa | 9.8% |
United Kingdom | 1.6% |
China | 1.6% |
Peru | 1.4% |
Exchange-Traded Funds | 1.8% |
Cash and Equivalents* | 0.4% |
*Includes temporary cash investments and other assets and liabilities. | |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Foreign Common Stocks | 81.4% |
Domestic Common Stocks | 16.4% |
Exchange-Traded Funds | 1.8% |
Total Equity Exposure | 99.6% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 0.3% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | 0.1% |
7
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
If you hold Investor Class shares of any American Century Investments fund, or I Class shares of the American Century Diversified Bond Fund, in an American Century Investments account (i.e., not a financial intermediary or retirement plan account), American Century Investments may charge you a $12.50 semiannual account maintenance fee if the value of those shares is less than $10,000. We will redeem shares automatically in one of your accounts to pay the $12.50 fee. In determining your total eligible investment amount, we will include your investments in all personal accounts (including American Century Investments Brokerage accounts) registered under your Social Security number. Personal accounts include individual accounts, joint accounts, UGMA/UTMA accounts, personal trusts, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and IRAs (including traditional, Roth, Rollover, SEP-, SARSEP- and SIMPLE-IRAs), and certain other retirement accounts. If you have only business, business retirement, employer-sponsored or American Century Investments Brokerage accounts, you are currently not subject to this fee. If you are subject to the Account Maintenance Fee, your account value could be reduced by the fee amount.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
8
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,204.90 | $3.66 | 0.67% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,206.30 | $2.57 | 0.47% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,204.50 | $5.03 | 0.92% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,198.90 | $9.10 | 1.67% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,201.50 | $6.39 | 1.17% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,021.47 | $3.36 | 0.67% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,022.46 | $2.36 | 0.47% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,020.23 | $4.61 | 0.92% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,016.51 | $8.35 | 1.67% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,018.99 | $5.86 | 1.17% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
9
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 97.8% | ||||
Australia — 17.0% | ||||
Evolution Mining Ltd. | 4,196,700 | $ | 12,871,477 | |
Gold Road Resources Ltd.(1) | 5,909,090 | 4,111,269 | ||
Newcrest Mining Ltd. | 1,260,913 | 28,339,725 | ||
Northern Star Resources Ltd. | 1,657,800 | 13,593,852 | ||
Regis Resources Ltd. | 2,021,200 | 7,515,150 | ||
Saracen Mineral Holdings Ltd.(1) | 3,463,700 | 8,965,203 | ||
St. Barbara Ltd. | 420,900 | 868,943 | ||
76,265,619 | ||||
Canada — 50.0% | ||||
Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. | 95,496 | 4,896,034 | ||
Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. (New York) | 314,600 | 16,120,104 | ||
Alamos Gold, Inc., Class A (New York) | 1,375,400 | 8,321,170 | ||
B2Gold Corp. (New York)(1) | 4,046,700 | 12,261,501 | ||
Barrick Gold Corp. | 2,569,620 | 40,522,907 | ||
Centerra Gold, Inc.(1) | 1,036,400 | 7,296,864 | ||
Continental Gold, Inc.(1) | 270,400 | 782,571 | ||
Detour Gold Corp.(1) | 739,301 | 9,326,297 | ||
Eldorado Gold Corp.(1) | 433,400 | 2,518,555 | ||
Fortuna Silver Mines, Inc.(1) | 589,300 | 1,679,505 | ||
Franco-Nevada Corp. (New York) | 282,500 | 23,978,600 | ||
GoGold Resources, Inc.(1) | 5,526,925 | 1,624,884 | ||
Guyana Goldfields, Inc.(1) | 892,621 | 702,073 | ||
IAMGOLD Corp. (New York)(1) | 134,100 | 453,258 | ||
Kinross Gold Corp. (New York)(1) | 3,051,957 | 11,841,593 | ||
Kirkland Lake Gold Ltd. | 705,100 | 30,378,177 | ||
MAG Silver Corp.(1) | 34,000 | 358,360 | ||
OceanaGold Corp. | 1,666,753 | 4,556,509 | ||
Orezone Gold Corp.(1) | 5,400,000 | 2,639,075 | ||
Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd. | 52,400 | 547,056 | ||
Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd. | 198,231 | 2,066,247 | ||
Pan American Silver Corp. (NASDAQ) | 192,600 | 2,486,466 | ||
Premier Gold Mines Ltd.(1) | 339,100 | 528,246 | ||
Pretium Resources, Inc.(1) | 251,500 | 2,517,515 | ||
Roxgold, Inc.(1) | 2,860,300 | 2,358,920 | ||
Sandstorm Gold Ltd.(1) | 345,000 | 1,915,276 | ||
Sandstorm Gold Ltd. (New York)(1) | 861,200 | 4,771,048 | ||
SEMAFO, Inc.(1) | 825,000 | 3,250,735 | ||
Silvercorp Metals, Inc. | 584,900 | 1,447,120 | ||
Torex Gold Resources, Inc.(1) | 204,000 | 2,096,781 | ||
Wesdome Gold Mines Ltd.(1) | 77,700 | 319,807 | ||
Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. | 711,400 | 17,201,652 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
Yamana Gold, Inc. (New York) | 1,014,481 | $ | 2,556,492 | |
224,321,398 | ||||
China — 1.6% | ||||
Zijin Mining Group Co. Ltd., H Shares | 17,142,000 | 6,968,124 | ||
Peru — 1.4% | ||||
Cia de Minas Buenaventura SAA ADR | 376,300 | 6,272,921 | ||
South Africa — 9.8% | ||||
Anglo American Platinum Ltd. | 39,100 | 2,326,436 | ||
AngloGold Ashanti Ltd. | 225,302 | 4,036,419 | ||
AngloGold Ashanti Ltd. ADR | 1,026,676 | 18,285,100 | ||
Gold Fields Ltd. | 1,170,510 | 6,400,221 | ||
Gold Fields Ltd. ADR | 784,200 | 4,242,522 | ||
Harmony Gold Mining Co. Ltd. ADR(1) | 1,328,000 | 3,014,560 | ||
Impala Platinum Holdings Ltd.(1) | 986,900 | 4,893,577 | ||
Sibanye Gold Ltd. ADR(1) | 160,400 | 761,900 | ||
43,960,735 | ||||
United Kingdom — 1.6% | ||||
Centamin plc | 3,151,200 | 4,585,144 | ||
Highland Gold Mining Ltd. | 200,300 | 518,675 | ||
Hochschild Mining plc | 820,200 | 1,995,959 | ||
7,099,778 | ||||
United States — 16.4% | ||||
Newmont Goldcorp Corp. | 161,171 | 6,180,755 | ||
Newmont Goldcorp Corp. | 1,351,080 | 51,976,048 | ||
Royal Gold, Inc. | 148,321 | 15,201,419 | ||
73,358,222 | ||||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $281,473,026) | 438,246,797 | |||
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS — 1.8% | ||||
VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF | 90,000 | 2,300,400 | ||
VanEck Vectors Junior Gold Miners ETF | 165,900 | 5,799,864 | ||
TOTAL EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS (Cost $6,851,763) | 8,100,264 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 0.3% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $1,242,790), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $1,220,441) | 1,220,212 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.375%, 7/15/27, valued at $237,569), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $231,024) | 231,000 | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 2,510 | 2,510 | ||
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $1,453,722) | 1,453,722 | |||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES — 99.9% (Cost $289,778,511) | 447,800,783 | |||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — 0.1% | 488,129 | |||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 448,288,912 |
11
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | ||
ADR | - | American Depositary Receipt |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
12
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $289,778,511) | $ | 447,800,783 | |
Receivable for investments sold | 6,217,445 | ||
Receivable for capital shares sold | 349,165 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 261,497 | ||
454,628,890 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 1,016 | ||
Payable for investments purchased | 4,999,237 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 1,110,268 | ||
Accrued management fees | 223,012 | ||
Distribution and service fees payable | 6,445 | ||
6,339,978 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 448,288,912 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 441,680,843 | |
Distributable earnings | 6,608,069 | ||
$ | 448,288,912 |
Net Assets | Shares Outstanding | Net Asset Value Per Share | ||||
Investor Class, $0.01 Par Value | $398,803,537 | 40,854,325 | $9.76 | |||
I Class, $0.01 Par Value | $30,607,520 | 3,097,806 | $9.88 | |||
A Class, $0.01 Par Value | $10,311,390 | 1,080,789 | $9.54* | |||
C Class, $0.01 Par Value | $2,993,567 | 331,048 | $9.04 | |||
R Class, $0.01 Par Value | $5,572,898 | 591,393 | $9.42 |
*Maximum offering price $10.12 (net asset value divided by 0.9425).
See Notes to Financial Statements.
13
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $324,619) | $ | 5,457,821 | |
Interest | 74,644 | ||
5,532,465 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Management fees | 2,385,923 | ||
Distribution and service fees: | |||
A Class | 18,566 | ||
C Class | 24,901 | ||
R Class | 24,006 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 25,429 | ||
Other expenses | 7,258 | ||
2,486,083 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 3,046,382 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | (5,242,186 | ) | |
Foreign currency translation transactions | 77,832 | ||
(5,164,354 | ) | ||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments | 63,049,116 | ||
Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | (74,115 | ) | |
62,975,001 | |||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 57,810,647 | ||
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | 60,857,029 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
14
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 3,046,382 | $ | 1,768,735 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | (5,164,354 | ) | (3,372,961 | ) | ||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 62,975,001 | 16,478,278 | ||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 60,857,029 | 14,874,052 | ||||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions (Note 5) | 11,193,212 | (19,266,702 | ) | |||
Redemption Fees | ||||||
Increase in net assets from redemption fees | — | 10,437 | ||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | 72,050,241 | (4,382,213 | ) | |||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 376,238,671 | 380,620,884 | ||||
End of period | $ | 448,288,912 | $ | 376,238,671 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
15
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. Global Gold Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek to realize a total return (capital growth and dividends) consistent with investment in securities of companies that are engaged in mining, processing, fabricating or distributing gold or other precious metals throughout the world.
The fund offers the Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class and R Class. The A Class may incur an initial sales charge. The A Class and C Class may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price. Equity securities initially expressed in local currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the mean of the appropriate currency exchange rate at the close of the NYSE as provided by an independent pricing service.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
16
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.
Foreign Currency Translations — All assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at prevailing exchange rates at period end. The fund may enter into spot foreign currency exchange contracts to facilitate transactions denominated in a foreign currency. Purchases and sales of investment securities, dividend and interest income, spot foreign currency exchange contracts, and expenses are translated at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Net realized and unrealized foreign currency exchange gains or losses related to investment securities are a component of net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments, respectively.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Multiple Class — All shares of the fund represent an equal pro rata interest in the net assets of the class to which such shares belong, and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the fund are allocated to each class of shares based on their relative net assets.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid semiannually. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually.
17
Redemption Fees — Prior to October 9, 2017, the fund may have imposed a 1.00% redemption fee on shares held less than 60 days. The fee was not applicable to all classes. The redemption fee was retained by the fund to help cover transaction costs that long-term investors may bear when the fund sells securities to meet investor redemptions.
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS), and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC.
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee) per class. The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except distribution and service fees, brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on each class’s daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The difference in the fee among the classes is a result of their separate arrangements for non-Rule 12b-1 shareholder services. It is not the result of any difference in advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the fund’s assets, which do not vary by class. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The Investment Category Fee range, the Complex Fee range and the effective annual management fee for each class for the period ended June 30, 2019 are as follows:
Investment Category Fee Range | Complex Fee Range | Effective Annual Management Fee | |
Investor Class | 0.3380% to 0.5200% | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% |
I Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.46% | |
A Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% | |
C Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% | |
R Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% |
Distribution and Service Fees — The Board of Directors has adopted a separate Master Distribution and Individual Shareholder Services Plan for each of the A Class, C Class and R Class (collectively the plans), pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act. The plans provide that the A Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.25%. The plans provide that the C Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 1.00%, of which 0.25% is paid for individual shareholder services and 0.75% is paid for distribution services. The plans provide that the R Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.50%. The fees are computed and accrued daily based on each class’s daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The fees are used to pay financial intermediaries for distribution and individual shareholder services. Fees incurred under the plans during the period ended June 30, 2019 are detailed in the Statement of Operations.
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
18
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. There were no interfund transactions during the period.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $194,571,677 and $174,510,401, respectively.
5. Capital Share Transactions
Transactions in shares of the fund were as follows:
Year ended June 30, 2019 | Year ended June 30, 2018 | |||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||
Investor Class/Shares Authorized | 360,000,000 | 360,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 11,498,013 | $ | 91,760,087 | 4,889,599 | $ | 42,188,999 | ||||
Redeemed | (11,133,781 | ) | (91,058,012 | ) | (6,948,239 | ) | (59,883,390 | ) | ||
364,232 | 702,075 | (2,058,640 | ) | (17,694,391 | ) | |||||
I Class/Shares Authorized | 30,000,000 | 30,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 5,463,516 | 43,020,050 | 783,804 | 6,828,597 | ||||||
Redeemed | (3,919,422 | ) | (33,623,403 | ) | (998,465 | ) | (8,657,027 | ) | ||
1,544,094 | 9,396,647 | (214,661 | ) | (1,828,430 | ) | |||||
A Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 688,777 | 5,511,378 | 468,886 | 3,956,561 | ||||||
Redeemed | (497,467 | ) | (3,985,567 | ) | (553,185 | ) | (4,670,101 | ) | ||
191,310 | 1,525,811 | (84,299 | ) | (713,540 | ) | |||||
C Class/Shares Authorized | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 123,257 | 914,110 | 76,000 | 609,071 | ||||||
Redeemed | (99,114 | ) | (753,262 | ) | (61,872 | ) | (498,848 | ) | ||
24,143 | 160,848 | 14,128 | 110,223 | |||||||
R Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 266,925 | 2,079,551 | 229,235 | 1,920,049 | ||||||
Redeemed | (339,420 | ) | (2,671,720 | ) | (126,663 | ) | (1,060,613 | ) | ||
(72,495 | ) | (592,169 | ) | 102,572 | 859,436 | |||||
Net increase (decrease) | 2,051,284 | $ | 11,193,212 | (2,240,900 | ) | $ | (19,266,702 | ) |
19
6. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Australia | — | $ | 76,265,619 | — | ||||
Canada | $ | 145,617,227 | 78,704,171 | — | ||||
China | — | 6,968,124 | — | |||||
South Africa | 26,304,082 | 17,656,653 | — | |||||
United Kingdom | — | 7,099,778 | — | |||||
United States | 67,177,467 | 6,180,755 | — | |||||
Other Countries | 6,272,921 | — | — | |||||
Exchange-Traded Funds | 8,100,264 | — | — | |||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 2,510 | 1,451,212 | — | |||||
$ | 253,474,471 | $ | 194,326,312 | — |
7. Risk Factors
There are certain risks involved in investing in foreign securities. These risks include those resulting from political events (such as civil unrest, national elections and imposition of exchange controls), social and economic events (such as labor strikes and rising inflation), and natural disasters. Securities of foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile. Investing in emerging markets or a significant portion of assets in one country or region may accentuate these risks.
The fund concentrates its investments in a narrow segment of the total market. Because of this, the fund may be subject to greater risk and market fluctuations than a portfolio representing a broader range of industries. Gold stocks are generally considered speculative because of high share price volatility. The price of gold will likely impact the value of the companies in which the fund invests. The price of gold will fluctuate, sometimes considerably. Though many investors believe that gold investments hedge against inflation, currency devaluations and stock market declines, there is no guarantee that these historical inverse relationships will continue.
20
8. Federal Tax Information
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements. There were no distributions paid by the fund during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 303,623,805 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 154,545,507 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (10,368,529 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | 144,176,978 | ||
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) on translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | 6,513 | ||
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) | $ | 144,183,491 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | 3,362,474 | ||
Accumulated short-term capital losses | $ | (42,168,323 | ) |
Accumulated long-term capital losses | $ | (98,769,573 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the realization to ordinary income for tax purposes of unrealized gains on investments in passive foreign investment companies.
Accumulated capital losses represent net capital loss carryovers that may be used to offset future realized capital gains for federal income tax purposes. The capital loss carryovers may be carried forward for an unlimited period. Future capital loss carryover utilization in any given year may be subject to Internal Revenue Code limitations.
21
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | ||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Distributions From Net Investment Income | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | |||||||||||||
2019 | $8.58 | 0.07 | 1.11 | 1.18 | — | $9.76 | 13.75% | 0.67% | 0.84% | 47% | $398,804 | ||
2018 | $8.25 | 0.04 | 0.29 | 0.33 | — | $8.58 | 4.00% | 0.66% | 0.47% | 37% | $347,311 | ||
2017 | $11.66 | —(3) | (2.57) | (2.57) | (0.84) | $8.25 | (21.33)% | 0.67% | 0.05% | 27% | $351,207 | ||
2016 | $7.21 | —(3) | 4.45 | 4.45 | — | $11.66 | 61.72% | 0.68% | 0.06% | 11% | $474,952 | ||
2015 | $11.08 | 0.02 | (3.64) | (3.62) | (0.25) | $7.21 | (32.61)% | 0.67% | 0.21% | 17% | $288,172 | ||
I Class | |||||||||||||
2019 | $8.67 | 0.08 | 1.13 | 1.21 | — | $9.88 | 13.96% | 0.47% | 1.04% | 47% | $30,608 | ||
2018 | $8.32 | 0.06 | 0.29 | 0.35 | — | $8.67 | 4.21% | 0.46% | 0.67% | 37% | $13,464 | ||
2017 | $11.75 | 0.02 | (2.60) | (2.58) | (0.85) | $8.32 | (21.17)% | 0.47% | 0.25% | 27% | $14,717 | ||
2016 | $7.25 | 0.02 | 4.48 | 4.50 | — | $11.75 | 62.07% | 0.48% | 0.26% | 11% | $15,579 | ||
2015 | $11.14 | 0.04 | (3.67) | (3.63) | (0.26) | $7.25 | (32.48)% | 0.47% | 0.41% | 17% | $9,639 | ||
A Class | |||||||||||||
2019 | $8.40 | 0.05 | 1.09 | 1.14 | — | $9.54 | 13.57% | 0.92% | 0.59% | 47% | $10,311 | ||
2018 | $8.11 | 0.02 | 0.27 | 0.29 | — | $8.40 | 3.58% | 0.91% | 0.22% | 37% | $7,475 | ||
2017 | $11.47 | (0.02) | (2.52) | (2.54) | (0.82) | $8.11 | (21.45)% | 0.92% | (0.20)% | 27% | $7,895 | ||
2016 | $7.11 | (0.01) | 4.37 | 4.36 | — | $11.47 | 61.32% | 0.93% | (0.19)% | 11% | $15,196 | ||
2015 | $10.94 | (0.01) | (3.59) | (3.60) | (0.23) | $7.11 | (32.84)% | 0.92% | (0.04)% | 17% | $7,732 |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | ||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Distributions From Net Investment Income | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
C Class | |||||||||||||
2019 | $8.03 | (0.01) | 1.02 | 1.01 | — | $9.04 | 12.58% | 1.67% | (0.16)% | 47% | $2,994 | ||
2018 | $7.80 | (0.04) | 0.27 | 0.23 | — | $8.03 | 2.95% | 1.66% | (0.53)% | 37% | $2,463 | ||
2017 | $11.07 | (0.09) | (2.43) | (2.52) | (0.75) | $7.80 | (22.04)% | 1.67% | (0.95)% | 27% | $2,284 | ||
2016 | $6.91 | (0.06) | 4.22 | 4.16 | — | $11.07 | 60.20% | 1.68% | (0.94)% | 11% | $2,589 | ||
2015 | $10.64 | (0.07) | (3.48) | (3.55) | (0.18) | $6.91 | (33.36)% | 1.67% | (0.79)% | 17% | $2,024 | ||
R Class | |||||||||||||
2019 | $8.32 | 0.02 | 1.08 | 1.10 | — | $9.42 | 13.22% | 1.17% | 0.34% | 47% | $5,573 | ||
2018 | $8.05 | —(3) | 0.27 | 0.27 | — | $8.32 | 3.35% | 1.16% | (0.03)% | 37% | $5,524 | ||
2017 | $11.39 | (0.04) | (2.50) | (2.54) | (0.80) | $8.05 | (21.63)% | 1.17% | (0.45)% | 27% | $4,517 | ||
2016 | $7.08 | (0.03) | 4.34 | 4.31 | — | $11.39 | 60.88% | 1.18% | (0.44)% | 11% | $5,176 | ||
2015 | $10.89 | (0.02) | (3.58) | (3.60) | (0.21) | $7.08 | (32.98)% | 1.17% | (0.29)% | 17% | $2,534 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day and do not reflect applicable sales charges, if any. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
(3) | Per-share amount was less than $0.005. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of Global Gold Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of Global Gold Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
24
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
25
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
26
Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
27
Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
28
Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was above its benchmark for the one-, three-, five-, and ten-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
29
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer universe. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
30
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
31
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
32
Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, the fund intends to pass through to shareholders foreign source income of $3,967,078 and foreign taxes paid of $324,619, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as a foreign tax credit. Foreign source income and foreign tax expense per outstanding share on June 30, 2019 are $0.0863 and $0.0071, respectively.
33
Notes |
34
Notes |
35
Notes |
36
Notes |
37
Notes |
38
Notes |
39
Notes |
40
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92988 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
Income & Growth Fund | |
Investor Class (BIGRX) | |
I Class (AMGIX) | |
A Class (AMADX) | |
C Class (ACGCX) | |
R Class (AICRX) | |
R5 Class (AICGX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
President's Letter | 2 | |
Performance | 3 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
President’s Letter |
Jonathan Thomas
Dear Investor:
Thank you for reviewing this annual report for the period ended June 30, 2019. Annual reports help convey important information about fund returns, including market factors that affected performance during the reporting period. For additional investment and market insights, we encourage you to visit our website, americancentury.com.
Markets Overcame Heightened Volatility
Most broad large- and mid-cap stock indices ended the 12-month period with gains. However, these positive results masked some severe volatility, which led to wide performance swings. For example, the S&P 500 Index returned -6.85% in the first half of the period and 18.54% in the second half, leaving the index up 10.42% for the year. Even more dramatic, the S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index returned -21.91% in the first half of the reporting period, 13.34% in the second half, and -11.49% overall.
Fed’s Flip Fueled Investor Optimism
In the first half, mounting concerns about slowing global economic and earnings growth and Federal Reserve (Fed) policy soured investor sentiment. After raising rates in September, the Fed hiked again in December and delivered a surprisingly hawkish rate-hike outlook that worried investors and fueled a steep sell-off among riskier assets. Meanwhile, the risk-off climate sparked a flight to quality. Treasury yields plunged, triggering a rally among perceived safe-haven assets.
The new year brought a renewed sense of stability to financial markets and a key policy pivot from the Fed. The central bank abruptly and unexpectedly ended its rate-hike campaign and adopted a dovish tone amid moderating global growth and inflation. Additionally, investors’ worst-case fears about growth, trade and corporate earnings eased. Equity valuations appeared attractive, and a rally ensued. At the same time, Treasury yields continued to fall on moderating global growth data, muted inflation and accommodative central bank policy, which supported continued gains for interest rate-sensitive assets.
Looking ahead, we expect volatility to remain a formidable factor as investors react to global growth and trade trends, central bank policy and geopolitical developments. We believe this scenario underscores the importance of using professionally managed portfolios in pursuit of your investment goals. We appreciate your continued trust and confidence in us.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Thomas
President and Chief Executive Officer
American Century Investments
2
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | ||||||
Average Annual Returns | ||||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | BIGRX | 4.43% | 7.53% | 12.90% | — | 12/17/90 |
S&P 500 Index | — | 10.42% | 10.71% | 14.69% | — | — |
I Class | AMGIX | 4.65% | 7.76% | 13.13% | — | 1/28/98 |
A Class | AMADX | 12/15/97 | ||||
No sales charge | 4.18% | 7.27% | 12.62% | — | ||
With sales charge | -1.80% | 6.00% | 11.96% | — | ||
C Class | ACGCX | 3.40% | 6.47% | 11.78% | — | 6/28/01 |
R Class | AICRX | 3.95% | 7.00% | 12.34% | — | 8/29/03 |
R5 Class | AICGX | 4.68% | — | — | 9.32% | 4/10/17 |
Average annual returns since inception are presented when ten years of performance history is not available.
Sales charges include initial sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSCs), as applicable. A Class shares have a 5.75% maximum initial sales charge and may be subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. C Class shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase are subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. The SEC requires that mutual funds provide performance information net of maximum sales charges in all cases where charges could be applied.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
3
Growth of $10,000 Over 10 Years |
$10,000 investment made June 30, 2009 |
Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure. |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $33,672 | |
S&P 500 Index — $39,416 | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | |||||
Investor Class | I Class | A Class | C Class | R Class | R5 Class |
0.66% | 0.46% | 0.91% | 1.66% | 1.16% | 0.46% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
4
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Brian Garbe and Claudia Musat
Performance Summary
Income & Growth returned 4.43%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, compared with the 10.42% return of its benchmark, the S&P 500 Index.
Income & Growth advanced during the fiscal year, but underperformed its benchmark, the S&P 500 Index. Positioning in the energy, consumer discretionary and real estate sectors were the main detractors from fund performance, while stock selections in industrials and financials were additive.
Decisions Within Energy, Consumer Discretionary and Real Estate Dampen Returns
Positioning within the energy sector was the primary headwind for results. In the oil, gas and consumable fuels industry, companies such as Occidental Petroleum and HollyFrontier were among the top individual detractors from performance. Oil price volatility hurt many energy company stocks during the 12 months. In addition, Occidental Petroleum’s price suffered after its acquisition of Anadarko Petroleum was announced late in the period. The company maintains high scores for valuation and growth factors. Within the energy equipment and services industry, Halliburton and Schlumberger were also among the poorest performers. We have since exited both positions.
Within consumer discretionary, stock decisions weighed on returns. Choices within the hotels, restaurants and leisure industry detracted, as did selections within multiline retail, where a position in Kohl’s was among the worst-performing stocks for the 12 months. The retailer has been hurt by the consumer trend towards online shopping. We have since exited the stock. Elsewhere in the sector, a position within luxury accessories company Tapestry was also among the leading individual detractors. The stock maintains strong scores for quality and valuation. It slid due to investor concern over reduced demand for its products.
Selections among equity real estate investment trusts was also a top source of weakness during the period. Senior Housing Properties Trust was among the top detractors from overall performance. The owner of multiple senior living communities cut its dividend in April amid concerns over its debt and cash flows, leading to a significant drop-off in share price. The company maintains above-average scores for sentiment, quality and valuation.
Stock Selection Benefits Returns in Industrials and Financials
Stock selection within industrials was a primary contributor to results. Positioning within commercial services and supplies provided a tailwind to returns. Sanitation company Waste Management was one of the top individual contributors to results. Its stock price rose throughout the second half of the period after an announcement it would be buying competitor Advanced Disposal Services. It maintains a high score for sentiment. In industrial conglomerates, stock choices were additive, as were positioning decisions in the building products and machinery industries.
*All fund returns referenced in this commentary are for Investor Class shares. Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure; when Investor Class performance exceeds that of the fund’s benchmark, other share classes may not. See page 3 for returns for all share classes.
5
In the financials sector, reduced exposure to several capital markets companies that underperformed the broader market during the period helped to bolster returns. Stock selections within the banks industry were also accretive to results. Turning to notable individual contributors within other sectors, an absence of exposure to semiconductor manufacturer NVIDIA was among the leading sources of relative strength. The stock maintains poor scores for sentiment, quality and valuation. An overweight to insurer Progressive was also additive. The company maintains solid scores for quality, growth and valuation.
Portfolio Positioning
We employ a structured, disciplined investment approach for both stock selection and portfolio construction. We incorporate measures of valuation, quality, growth and sentiment into our stock-selection process, with the aim of producing consistent long-term performance. We seek to maintain balanced exposure to our fundamentally based, multi-dimensional drivers of stock returns, applying bottom-up research and analysis on individual stocks to determine positioning. As a result of this approach and our risk-control process, which seeks to limit active risk at the sector and industry level, we will have only modest sector overweights/underweights at any given time.
At period-end, information technology was the most overweight sector. We increased our relative overweight position during the year in order to take advantage of opportunities in the software and technology hardware, storage and peripherals industries. Real estate was another notable sector overweight, reflecting attractive dividend yields consistent with the portfolio’s income mandate. Conversely, we are comparatively underweight communication services and utilities stocks. Within communication services, our underweight is in part due to our limited exposure to the entertainment and media industries, which score poorly on multiple factors. Our utilities sector underweight reflects a lack of opportunity in this area across most factors in the stock selection model, particularly within the electric utilities and multi-utilities industries.
6
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Holdings | % of net assets |
Microsoft Corp. | 5.0% |
Apple, Inc. | 3.4% |
Alphabet, Inc., Class A | 3.1% |
Amazon.com, Inc. | 2.5% |
JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 2.4% |
Chevron Corp. | 1.9% |
Pfizer, Inc. | 1.8% |
Cisco Systems, Inc. | 1.8% |
Verizon Communications, Inc. | 1.8% |
Intel Corp. | 1.7% |
Top Five Industries | % of net assets |
Software | 8.7% |
Pharmaceuticals | 7.1% |
Banks | 6.4% |
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels | 6.1% |
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) | 5.1% |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Common Stocks | 99.1% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 0.9% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | —* |
*Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets.
7
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
If you hold Investor Class shares of any American Century Investments fund, or I Class shares of the American Century Diversified Bond Fund, in an American Century Investments account (i.e., not a financial intermediary or retirement plan account), American Century Investments may charge you a $12.50 semiannual account maintenance fee if the value of those shares is less than $10,000. We will redeem shares automatically in one of your accounts to pay the $12.50 fee. In determining your total eligible investment amount, we will include your investments in all personal accounts (including American Century Investments Brokerage accounts) registered under your Social Security number. Personal accounts include individual accounts, joint accounts, UGMA/UTMA accounts, personal trusts, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and IRAs (including traditional, Roth, Rollover, SEP-, SARSEP- and SIMPLE-IRAs), and certain other retirement accounts. If you have only business, business retirement, employer-sponsored or American Century Investments Brokerage accounts, you are currently not subject to this fee. If you are subject to the Account Maintenance Fee, your account value could be reduced by the fee amount.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
8
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,139.00 | $3.55 | 0.67% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,140.50 | $2.49 | 0.47% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,138.00 | $4.88 | 0.92% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,133.60 | $8.83 | 1.67% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,136.40 | $6.20 | 1.17% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $1,140.50 | $2.49 | 0.47% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,021.47 | $3.36 | 0.67% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,022.46 | $2.36 | 0.47% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,020.23 | $4.61 | 0.92% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,016.51 | $8.35 | 1.67% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,018.99 | $5.86 | 1.17% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $1,022.46 | $2.36 | 0.47% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
9
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 99.1% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — 1.2% | ||||
Boeing Co. (The) | 14,816 | $ | 5,393,172 | |
Raytheon Co. | 121,860 | 21,189,017 | ||
26,582,189 | ||||
Air Freight and Logistics — 1.0% | ||||
CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc. | 39,711 | 3,349,623 | ||
United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B | 186,070 | 19,215,449 | ||
22,565,072 | ||||
Banks — 6.4% | ||||
Bank of America Corp. | 792,578 | 22,984,762 | ||
BB&T Corp. | 290,561 | 14,275,262 | ||
Comerica, Inc. | 200,036 | 14,530,615 | ||
JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 477,395 | 53,372,761 | ||
SunTrust Banks, Inc. | 55,069 | 3,461,086 | ||
Wells Fargo & Co. | 718,568 | 34,002,638 | ||
142,627,124 | ||||
Beverages — 1.8% | ||||
Coca-Cola Co. (The) | 441,081 | 22,459,845 | ||
Molson Coors Brewing Co., Class B | 10,349 | 579,544 | ||
PepsiCo, Inc. | 127,487 | 16,717,370 | ||
39,756,759 | ||||
Biotechnology — 4.3% | ||||
AbbVie, Inc. | 342,502 | 24,906,746 | ||
Amgen, Inc. | 152,228 | 28,052,576 | ||
Biogen, Inc.(1) | 70,713 | 16,537,649 | ||
Gilead Sciences, Inc. | 375,859 | 25,393,034 | ||
94,890,005 | ||||
Building Products — 1.0% | ||||
Johnson Controls International plc | 535,559 | 22,123,942 | ||
Capital Markets — 1.1% | ||||
Franklin Resources, Inc. | 305,567 | 10,633,732 | ||
Janus Henderson Group plc | 417,504 | 8,934,586 | ||
Moelis & Co., Class A | 60,274 | 2,106,576 | ||
TD Ameritrade Holding Corp. | 58,032 | 2,896,957 | ||
24,571,851 | ||||
Chemicals — 0.1% | ||||
LyondellBasell Industries NV, Class A | 28,183 | 2,427,402 | ||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 1.4% | ||||
Republic Services, Inc. | 131,504 | 11,393,506 | ||
Waste Management, Inc. | 175,240 | 20,217,439 | ||
31,610,945 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
Communications Equipment — 2.6% | ||||
Cisco Systems, Inc. | 738,397 | $ | 40,412,468 | |
Juniper Networks, Inc. | 666,218 | 17,741,385 | ||
58,153,853 | ||||
Consumer Finance — 1.9% | ||||
Discover Financial Services | 281,359 | 21,830,645 | ||
Synchrony Financial | 600,679 | 20,825,541 | ||
42,656,186 | ||||
Containers and Packaging — 0.3% | ||||
Packaging Corp. of America | 74,780 | 7,128,030 | ||
Diversified Financial Services — 0.8% | ||||
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B(1) | 85,040 | 18,127,977 | ||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 2.1% | ||||
AT&T, Inc. | 239,791 | 8,035,396 | ||
Verizon Communications, Inc. | 682,096 | 38,968,145 | ||
47,003,541 | ||||
Electric Utilities — 0.8% | ||||
Exelon Corp. | 213,166 | 10,219,178 | ||
IDACORP, Inc. | 71,802 | 7,211,075 | ||
17,430,253 | ||||
Electrical Equipment — 0.8% | ||||
Rockwell Automation, Inc. | 106,606 | 17,465,261 | ||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 1.0% | ||||
Corning, Inc. | 145,128 | 4,822,604 | ||
National Instruments Corp. | 391,263 | 16,429,133 | ||
21,251,737 | ||||
Entertainment — 0.5% | ||||
Activision Blizzard, Inc. | 90,071 | 4,251,351 | ||
Walt Disney Co. (The) | 40,245 | 5,619,812 | ||
9,871,163 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 5.1% | ||||
Apple Hospitality REIT, Inc. | 149,127 | 2,365,154 | ||
Brixmor Property Group, Inc. | 1,035,389 | 18,512,755 | ||
Corporate Office Properties Trust | 132,026 | 3,481,525 | ||
EPR Properties | 223,600 | 16,678,324 | ||
Healthcare Trust of America, Inc., Class A | 581,298 | 15,945,004 | ||
Industrial Logistics Properties Trust | 238,863 | 4,973,128 | ||
Life Storage, Inc. | 169,021 | 16,070,517 | ||
Regency Centers Corp. | 94,825 | 6,328,620 | ||
Senior Housing Properties Trust | 1,006,921 | 8,327,237 | ||
Spirit Realty Capital, Inc. | 42,274 | 1,803,409 | ||
Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. | 828,081 | 13,423,193 | ||
Weingarten Realty Investors | 148,235 | 4,064,604 | ||
111,973,470 | ||||
Food Products — 2.6% | ||||
Campbell Soup Co. | 290,741 | 11,649,992 | ||
General Mills, Inc. | 449,486 | 23,607,005 |
11
Shares | Value | |||
Hershey Co. (The) | 159,110 | $ | 21,325,513 | |
56,582,510 | ||||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 2.4% | ||||
Medtronic plc | 317,013 | 30,873,896 | ||
Stryker Corp. | 109,130 | 22,434,945 | ||
53,308,841 | ||||
Health Care Providers and Services — 0.2% | ||||
UnitedHealth Group, Inc. | 21,594 | 5,269,152 | ||
Health Care Technology — 0.2% | ||||
Veeva Systems, Inc., Class A(1) | 20,254 | 3,283,376 | ||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 2.1% | ||||
Darden Restaurants, Inc. | 163,959 | 19,958,729 | ||
Starbucks Corp. | 308,282 | 25,843,280 | ||
45,802,009 | ||||
Household Durables — 0.4% | ||||
Garmin Ltd. | 122,626 | 9,785,555 | ||
Household Products — 0.7% | ||||
Procter & Gamble Co. (The) | 137,649 | 15,093,213 | ||
Industrial Conglomerates — 0.4% | ||||
Honeywell International, Inc. | 52,317 | 9,134,025 | ||
Insurance — 3.0% | ||||
MetLife, Inc. | 468,264 | 23,258,673 | ||
Progressive Corp. (The) | 278,844 | 22,288,001 | ||
Prudential Financial, Inc. | 196,369 | 19,833,269 | ||
65,379,943 | ||||
Interactive Media and Services — 4.1% | ||||
Alphabet, Inc., Class A(1) | 63,263 | 68,501,176 | ||
Facebook, Inc., Class A(1) | 120,351 | 23,227,743 | ||
91,728,919 | ||||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 3.5% | ||||
Amazon.com, Inc.(1) | 29,749 | 56,333,599 | ||
eBay, Inc. | 537,748 | 21,241,046 | ||
77,574,645 | ||||
IT Services — 3.3% | ||||
Amdocs Ltd. | 165,093 | 10,250,624 | ||
Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. | 19,211 | 2,356,806 | ||
International Business Machines Corp. | 215,135 | 29,667,117 | ||
Leidos Holdings, Inc. | 12,998 | 1,037,890 | ||
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 5,053 | 1,336,670 | ||
MAXIMUS, Inc. | 44,009 | 3,192,413 | ||
PayPal Holdings, Inc.(1) | 38,485 | 4,404,993 | ||
Visa, Inc., Class A | 115,679 | 20,076,090 | ||
72,322,603 | ||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 0.7% | ||||
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. | 49,825 | 14,632,606 | ||
Machinery — 1.7% | ||||
Cummins, Inc. | 113,115 | 19,381,124 |
12
Shares | Value | |||
Snap-on, Inc. | 111,147 | $ | 18,410,389 | |
37,791,513 | ||||
Media — 0.8% | ||||
Comcast Corp., Class A | 6,613 | 279,597 | ||
Interpublic Group of Cos., Inc. (The) | 748,842 | 16,916,341 | ||
17,195,938 | ||||
Metals and Mining — 0.8% | ||||
Nucor Corp. | 334,066 | 18,407,037 | ||
Multi-Utilities — 0.5% | ||||
Dominion Energy, Inc. | 140,609 | 10,871,888 | ||
Multiline Retail — 0.1% | ||||
Target Corp. | 28,956 | 2,507,879 | ||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 6.1% | ||||
Chevron Corp. | 329,164 | 40,961,168 | ||
ConocoPhillips | 102,874 | 6,275,314 | ||
Exxon Mobil Corp. | 163,563 | 12,533,833 | ||
HollyFrontier Corp. | 386,197 | 17,873,197 | ||
Occidental Petroleum Corp. | 331,057 | 16,645,546 | ||
Phillips 66 | 228,810 | 21,402,887 | ||
Valero Energy Corp. | 227,381 | 19,466,088 | ||
135,158,033 | ||||
Paper and Forest Products — 0.8% | ||||
Domtar Corp. | 376,537 | 16,767,193 | ||
Pharmaceuticals — 7.1% | ||||
Allergan plc | 108,963 | 18,243,675 | ||
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. | 477,667 | 21,662,199 | ||
Eli Lilly & Co. | 218,523 | 24,210,163 | ||
Johnson & Johnson | 180,112 | 25,085,999 | ||
Merck & Co., Inc. | 320,048 | 26,836,025 | ||
Pfizer, Inc. | 942,928 | 40,847,641 | ||
156,885,702 | ||||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 4.8% | ||||
Analog Devices, Inc. | 6,728 | 759,389 | ||
Applied Materials, Inc. | 268,998 | 12,080,700 | ||
Broadcom, Inc. | 102,076 | 29,383,597 | ||
Intel Corp. | 778,366 | 37,260,381 | ||
QUALCOMM, Inc. | 348,170 | 26,485,292 | ||
105,969,359 | ||||
Software — 8.7% | ||||
Intuit, Inc. | 97,721 | 25,537,429 | ||
LogMeIn, Inc. | 135,487 | 9,982,682 | ||
Microsoft Corp. | 824,321 | 110,426,041 | ||
Oracle Corp.(New York) | 573,716 | 32,684,601 | ||
Zscaler, Inc.(1) | 185,150 | 14,189,896 | ||
192,820,649 | ||||
Specialty Retail — 0.9% | ||||
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. | 807,592 | 13,648,305 |
13
Shares | Value | |||
AutoZone, Inc.(1) | 4,548 | $ | 5,000,389 | |
Best Buy Co., Inc. | 30,505 | 2,127,114 | ||
20,775,808 | ||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals — 5.0% | ||||
Apple, Inc. | 376,202 | 74,457,900 | ||
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co. | 1,217,873 | 18,207,201 | ||
HP, Inc. | 105,079 | 2,184,592 | ||
Seagate Technology plc | 321,205 | 15,135,180 | ||
109,984,873 | ||||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 1.7% | ||||
NIKE, Inc., Class B | 139,727 | 11,730,082 | ||
Ralph Lauren Corp. | 84,901 | 9,643,904 | ||
Tapestry, Inc. | 543,337 | 17,240,083 | ||
38,614,069 | ||||
Tobacco — 2.3% | ||||
Altria Group, Inc. | 522,810 | 24,755,053 | ||
Philip Morris International, Inc. | 338,670 | 26,595,755 | ||
51,350,808 | ||||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $1,711,353,007) | 2,193,214,906 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 0.9% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $17,475,811), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $17,161,543) | 17,158,326 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.375%, 7/15/27, valued at $3,325,968), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $3,256,339) | 3,256,000 | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 16,230 | 16,230 | ||
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $20,430,556) | 20,430,556 | |||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES — 100.0% (Cost $1,731,783,563) | 2,213,645,462 | |||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES† | 184,293 | |||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 2,213,829,755 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
† | Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets. |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
14
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $1,731,783,563) | $ | 2,213,645,462 | |
Receivable for capital shares sold | 645,526 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 3,291,864 | ||
2,217,582,852 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 2,573,797 | ||
Accrued management fees | 1,130,877 | ||
Distribution and service fees payable | 48,423 | ||
3,753,097 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 2,213,829,755 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 1,701,204,519 | |
Distributable earnings | 512,625,236 | ||
$ | 2,213,829,755 |
Net Assets | Shares Outstanding | Net Asset Value Per Share | ||||
Investor Class, $0.01 Par Value | $1,707,535,606 | 46,370,555 | $36.82 | |||
I Class, $0.01 Par Value | $306,583,416 | 8,313,014 | $36.88 | |||
A Class, $0.01 Par Value | $152,312,331 | 4,143,229 | $36.76* | |||
C Class, $0.01 Par Value | $9,107,405 | 248,279 | $36.68 | |||
R Class, $0.01 Par Value | $24,675,986 | 670,436 | $36.81 | |||
R5 Class, $0.01 Par Value | $13,615,011 | 369,079 | $36.89 |
*Maximum offering price $39.00 (net asset value divided by 0.9425).
See Notes to Financial Statements.
15
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $3,904) | $ | 59,826,954 | |
Interest | 391,308 | ||
60,218,262 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Management fees | 13,922,705 | ||
Distribution and service fees: | |||
A Class | 380,681 | ||
C Class | 87,421 | ||
R Class | 125,511 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 154,131 | ||
Other expenses | 403 | ||
14,670,852 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 45,547,410 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | 78,022,200 | ||
Futures contract transactions | 580,988 | ||
78,603,188 | |||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | (26,164,480 | ) | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 52,438,708 | ||
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | 97,986,118 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
16
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 45,547,410 | $ | 51,051,644 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | 78,603,188 | 180,526,468 | ||||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (26,164,480 | ) | 58,020,952 | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 97,986,118 | 289,599,064 | ||||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings:(1) | ||||||
Investor Class | (184,522,529 | ) | (154,991,490 | ) | ||
I Class | (29,223,053 | ) | (23,117,923 | ) | ||
A Class | (15,989,055 | ) | (13,914,990 | ) | ||
C Class | (863,598 | ) | (586,715 | ) | ||
R Class | (2,594,469 | ) | (2,339,012 | ) | ||
R5 Class | (1,482,829 | ) | (109,527 | ) | ||
Decrease in net assets from distributions | (234,675,533 | ) | (195,059,657 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions (Note 5) | 130,765,006 | 60,088,088 | ||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (5,924,409 | ) | 154,627,495 | |||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 2,219,754,164 | 2,065,126,669 | ||||
End of period | $ | 2,213,829,755 | $ | 2,219,754,164 |
(1) | Prior period presentation has been updated to reflect the current period combination of distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains. Distributions from net investment income were $(39,274,876), $(5,820,706), $(3,170,464), $(93,791), $(480,039) and $(39,086) for Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class, respectively. Distributions from net realized gains were $(115,716,614), $(17,297,217), $(10,744,526), $(492,924), $(1,858,973) and $(70,441) for Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class, respectively. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
17
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. Income & Growth Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital growth by investing in common stocks. Income is a secondary objective.
The fund offers the Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class. The A Class may incur an initial sales charge. The A Class and C Class may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. Exchange-traded futures contracts are valued at the settlement price as provided by the appropriate exchange.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between
18
domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Segregated Assets — In accordance with the 1940 Act, the fund segregates assets on its books and records to cover certain types of investment securities and other financial instruments. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities segregated to ensure the fund designates a sufficient amount of liquid assets, marked-to-market daily. The fund may also receive assets or be required to pledge assets at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Multiple Class — All shares of the fund represent an equal pro rata interest in the net assets of the class to which such shares belong, and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the fund are allocated to each class of shares based on their relative net assets.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid quarterly. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually.
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
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3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS), and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC.
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee) per class. The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except distribution and service fees, brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on each class's daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The difference in the fee among the classes is a result of their separate arrangements for non-Rule 12b-1 shareholder services. It is not the result of any difference in advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the fund's assets, which do not vary by class. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The Investment Category Fee range, the Complex Fee range and the effective annual management fee for each class for the period ended June 30, 2019 are as follows:
Investment Category Fee Range | Complex Fee Range | Effective Annual Management Fee | |
Investor Class | 0.3380% to 0.5200% | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% |
I Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.46% | |
A Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% | |
C Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% | |
R Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.66% | |
R5 Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.46% |
Distribution and Service Fees — The Board of Directors has adopted a separate Master Distribution and Individual Shareholder Services Plan for each of the A Class, C Class and R Class (collectively the plans), pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act. The plans provide that the A Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.25%. The plans provide that the C Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 1.00%, of which 0.25% is paid for individual shareholder services and 0.75% is paid for distribution services. The plans provide that the R Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.50%. The fees are computed and accrued daily based on each class’s daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The fees are used to pay financial intermediaries for distribution and individual shareholder services. Fees incurred under the plans during the period ended June 30, 2019 are detailed in the Statement of Operations.
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $13,518,214 and $8,851,919, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $357,012 in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $1,558,271,059 and $1,593,885,388, respectively.
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5. Capital Share Transactions
Transactions in shares of the fund were as follows:
Year ended June 30, 2019 | Year ended June 30, 2018 | |||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||
Investor Class/Shares Authorized | 370,000,000 | 370,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 3,531,134 | $ | 132,444,830 | 3,270,833 | $ | 128,998,737 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 5,087,471 | 176,541,937 | 3,770,568 | 148,574,725 | ||||||
Redeemed | (6,474,475 | ) | (243,095,222 | ) | (7,433,451 | ) | (293,866,762 | ) | ||
2,144,130 | 65,891,545 | (392,050 | ) | (16,293,300 | ) | |||||
I Class/Shares Authorized | 40,000,000 | 40,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 2,716,347 | 98,765,501 | 2,780,758 | 110,115,067 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 814,500 | 28,358,276 | 582,477 | 22,993,886 | ||||||
Redeemed | (2,143,883 | ) | (81,643,945 | ) | (1,223,728 | ) | (48,844,162 | ) | ||
1,386,964 | 45,479,832 | 2,139,507 | 84,264,791 | |||||||
A Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 799,389 | 30,028,792 | 522,616 | 20,782,157 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 422,928 | 14,629,031 | 321,189 | 12,629,052 | ||||||
Redeemed | (1,004,009 | ) | (37,933,837 | ) | (1,063,137 | ) | (42,165,557 | ) | ||
218,308 | 6,723,986 | (219,332 | ) | (8,754,348 | ) | |||||
C Class/Shares Authorized | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 94,306 | 3,495,190 | 64,499 | 2,548,008 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 22,498 | 772,317 | 12,980 | 508,562 | ||||||
Redeemed | (85,258 | ) | (3,171,487 | ) | (55,721 | ) | (2,197,171 | ) | ||
31,546 | 1,096,020 | 21,758 | 859,399 | |||||||
R Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 269,308 | 9,978,276 | 178,677 | 7,068,133 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 31,358 | 1,083,316 | 19,416 | 763,688 | ||||||
Redeemed | (269,160 | ) | (10,039,390 | ) | (299,498 | ) | (11,926,030 | ) | ||
31,506 | 1,022,202 | (101,405 | ) | (4,094,209 | ) | |||||
R5 Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 336,733 | 13,331,436 | 107,538 | 4,314,570 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 42,842 | 1,482,829 | 2,762 | 109,527 | ||||||
Redeemed | (117,421 | ) | (4,262,844 | ) | (7,995 | ) | (318,342 | ) | ||
262,154 | 10,551,421 | 102,305 | 4,105,755 | |||||||
Net increase (decrease) | 4,074,608 | $ | 130,765,006 | 1,550,783 | $ | 60,088,088 |
6. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
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• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 2,193,214,906 | — | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 16,230 | $ | 20,414,326 | — | ||||
$ | 2,193,231,136 | $ | 20,414,326 | — |
7. Derivative Instruments
Equity Price Risk — The fund is subject to equity price risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. A fund may enter into futures contracts based on an equity index in order to manage its exposure to changes in market conditions. A fund may purchase futures contracts to gain exposure to increases in market value or sell futures contracts to protect against a decline in market value. Upon entering into a futures contract, a fund is required to deposit either cash or securities in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract value (initial margin). Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received daily, in cash, by a fund. The variation margin is equal to the daily change in the contract value and is recorded as unrealized gains and losses. A fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when the contract is closed or expires. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of futures contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts, respectively. One of the risks of entering into futures contracts is the possibility that the change in value of the contract may not correlate with the changes in value of the underlying securities. During the period, the fund participated in equity price risk derivative instruments for temporary investment purposes.
At period end, the fund did not have any derivative instruments disclosed on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the year ended June 30, 2019, the effect of equity price risk derivative instruments on the Statement of Operations was $580,988 in net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions.
8. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 79,811,845 | $ | 95,582,825 | ||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 154,863,688 | $ | 99,476,832 |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
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As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 1,735,930,716 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 554,678,484 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (76,963,738 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | $ | 477,714,746 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $ | 2,128,941 | |
Accumulated long-term gains | $ | 43,057,090 | |
Post-October capital loss deferral | $ | (10,275,541 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
Loss deferrals represent certain qualified losses that the fund has elected to treat as having been incurred in the following fiscal year for federal income tax purposes.
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Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $39.61 | 0.78 | 0.63 | 1.41 | (0.73) | (3.47) | (4.20) | $36.82 | 4.43% | 0.67% | 2.07% | 72% | $1,707,536 | ||
2018 | $37.90 | 0.93 | 4.40 | 5.33 | (0.88) | (2.74) | (3.62) | $39.61 | 14.32% | 0.66% | 2.33% | 77% | $1,751,738 | ||
2017 | $33.91 | 0.79 | 4.55 | 5.34 | (0.76) | (0.59) | (1.35) | $37.90 | 15.95% | 0.67% | 2.16% | 81% | $1,691,048 | ||
2016 | $36.78 | 0.82 | (0.61) | 0.21 | (0.84) | (2.24) | (3.08) | $33.91 | 1.00% | 0.68% | 2.40% | 79% | $1,551,664 | ||
2015 | $38.52 | 0.81 | 0.29 | 1.10 | (0.79) | (2.05) | (2.84) | $36.78 | 2.87% | 0.67% | 2.11% | 79% | $1,655,693 | ||
I Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $39.66 | 0.85 | 0.65 | 1.50 | (0.81) | (3.47) | (4.28) | $36.88 | 4.65% | 0.47% | 2.27% | 72% | $306,583 | ||
2018 | $37.94 | 0.99 | 4.43 | 5.42 | (0.96) | (2.74) | (3.70) | $39.66 | 14.55% | 0.46% | 2.53% | 77% | $274,687 | ||
2017 | $33.95 | 0.86 | 4.55 | 5.41 | (0.83) | (0.59) | (1.42) | $37.94 | 16.16% | 0.47% | 2.36% | 81% | $181,620 | ||
2016 | $36.82 | 0.88 | (0.60) | 0.28 | (0.91) | (2.24) | (3.15) | $33.95 | 1.21% | 0.48% | 2.60% | 79% | $127,626 | ||
2015 | $38.55 | 0.88 | 0.30 | 1.18 | (0.86) | (2.05) | (2.91) | $36.82 | 3.10% | 0.47% | 2.31% | 79% | $125,872 | ||
A Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $39.55 | 0.69 | 0.63 | 1.32 | (0.64) | (3.47) | (4.11) | $36.76 | 4.18% | 0.92% | 1.82% | 72% | $152,312 | ||
2018 | $37.85 | 0.83 | 4.39 | 5.22 | (0.78) | (2.74) | (3.52) | $39.55 | 14.03% | 0.91% | 2.08% | 77% | $155,233 | ||
2017 | $33.87 | 0.69 | 4.55 | 5.24 | (0.67) | (0.59) | (1.26) | $37.85 | 15.65% | 0.92% | 1.91% | 81% | $156,863 | ||
2016 | $36.74 | 0.73 | (0.61) | 0.12 | (0.75) | (2.24) | (2.99) | $33.87 | 0.75% | 0.93% | 2.15% | 79% | $205,390 | ||
2015 | $38.48 | 0.71 | 0.29 | 1.00 | (0.69) | (2.05) | (2.74) | $36.74 | 2.62% | 0.92% | 1.86% | 79% | $239,515 |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
C Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $39.48 | 0.41 | 0.63 | 1.04 | (0.37) | (3.47) | (3.84) | $36.68 | 3.40% | 1.67% | 1.07% | 72% | $9,107 | ||
2018 | $37.79 | 0.53 | 4.39 | 4.92 | (0.49) | (2.74) | (3.23) | $39.48 | 13.18% | 1.66% | 1.33% | 77% | $8,557 | ||
2017 | $33.82 | 0.42 | 4.53 | 4.95 | (0.39) | (0.59) | (0.98) | $37.79 | 14.77% | 1.67% | 1.16% | 81% | $7,368 | ||
2016 | $36.68 | 0.47 | (0.60) | (0.13) | (0.49) | (2.24) | (2.73) | $33.82 | 0.01% | 1.68% | 1.40% | 79% | $6,734 | ||
2015 | $38.42 | 0.42 | 0.29 | 0.71 | (0.40) | (2.05) | (2.45) | $36.68 | 1.86% | 1.67% | 1.11% | 79% | $8,195 | ||
R Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $39.59 | 0.60 | 0.64 | 1.24 | (0.55) | (3.47) | (4.02) | $36.81 | 3.95% | 1.17% | 1.57% | 72% | $24,676 | ||
2018 | $37.89 | 0.73 | 4.40 | 5.13 | (0.69) | (2.74) | (3.43) | $39.59 | 13.73% | 1.16% | 1.83% | 77% | $25,298 | ||
2017 | $33.91 | 0.60 | 4.55 | 5.15 | (0.58) | (0.59) | (1.17) | $37.89 | 15.34% | 1.17% | 1.66% | 81% | $28,052 | ||
2016 | $36.77 | 0.65 | (0.60) | 0.05 | (0.67) | (2.24) | (2.91) | $33.91 | 0.52% | 1.18% | 1.90% | 79% | $23,290 | ||
2015 | $38.51 | 0.60 | 0.31 | 0.91 | (0.60) | (2.05) | (2.65) | $36.77 | 2.36% | 1.17% | 1.61% | 79% | $15,663 | ||
R5 Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $39.66 | 0.88 | 0.63 | 1.51 | (0.81) | (3.47) | (4.28) | $36.89 | 4.68% | 0.47% | 2.27% | 72% | $13,615 | ||
2018 | $37.95 | 0.91 | 4.50 | 5.41 | (0.96) | (2.74) | (3.70) | $39.66 | 14.52% | 0.46% | 2.53% | 77% | $4,241 | ||
2017(3) | $37.51 | 0.20 | 0.43 | 0.63 | (0.19) | — | (0.19) | $37.95 | 1.68% | 0.47%(4) | 2.37%(4) | 81%(5) | $175 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day and do not reflect applicable sales charges, if any. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
(3) | April 10, 2017 (commencement of sale) through June 30, 2017. |
(4) | Annualized. |
(5) | Portfolio turnover is calculated at the fund level. Percentage indicated was calculated for the year ended June 30, 2017. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of Income & Growth Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of Income & Growth Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
27
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
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Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
29
Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
30
Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
31
Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was below its benchmark for the one-, three-, five-, and ten-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
32
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer group. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
33
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
34
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
35
Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $50,162,971, or up to the maximum amount allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
The fund hereby designates $36,694,297 as qualified short-term capital gain distributions for purposes of Internal Revenue Code Section 871 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund hereby designates $154,863,688, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
36
Notes |
37
Notes |
38
Notes |
39
Notes |
40
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92991 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
International Core Equity Fund | |
Investor Class (ACIMX) | |
I Class (ACIUX) | |
A Class (ACIQX) | |
C Class (ACIKX) | |
R Class (ACIRX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
President's Letter | 2 | |
Performance | 3 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
President’s Letter |
Jonathan Thomas
Dear Investor:
Thank you for reviewing this annual report for the period ended June 30, 2019. Annual reports help convey important information about fund returns, including market factors that affected performance during the reporting period. For additional investment and market insights, we encourage you to visit our website, americancentury.com.
Markets Overcame Heightened Volatility
Most broad large- and mid-cap stock indices ended the 12-month period with gains. However, these positive results masked some severe volatility, which led to wide performance swings. For example, the S&P 500 Index returned -6.85% in the first half of the period and 18.54% in the second half, leaving the index up 10.42% for the year. Even more dramatic, the S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index returned -21.91% in the first half of the reporting period, 13.34% in the second half, and -11.49% overall.
Fed’s Flip Fueled Investor Optimism
In the first half, mounting concerns about slowing global economic and earnings growth and Federal Reserve (Fed) policy soured investor sentiment. After raising rates in September, the Fed hiked again in December and delivered a surprisingly hawkish rate-hike outlook that worried investors and fueled a steep sell-off among riskier assets. Meanwhile, the risk-off climate sparked a flight to quality. Treasury yields plunged, triggering a rally among perceived safe-haven assets.
The new year brought a renewed sense of stability to financial markets and a key policy pivot from the Fed. The central bank abruptly and unexpectedly ended its rate-hike campaign and adopted a dovish tone amid moderating global growth and inflation. Additionally, investors’ worst-case fears about growth, trade and corporate earnings eased. Equity valuations appeared attractive, and a rally ensued. At the same time, Treasury yields continued to fall on moderating global growth data, muted inflation and accommodative central bank policy, which supported continued gains for interest rate-sensitive assets.
Looking ahead, we expect volatility to remain a formidable factor as investors react to global growth and trade trends, central bank policy and geopolitical developments. We believe this scenario underscores the importance of using professionally managed portfolios in pursuit of your investment goals. We appreciate your continued trust and confidence in us.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Thomas
President and Chief Executive Officer
American Century Investments
2
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | |||||
Average Annual Returns | |||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | ACIMX | -3.18% | 0.40% | 6.58% | 11/30/06 |
MSCI EAFE Index | — | 1.08% | 2.25% | 6.90% | — |
I Class | ACIUX | -2.98% | 0.63% | 6.80% | 11/30/06 |
A Class | ACIQX | 11/30/06 | |||
No sales charge | -3.42% | 0.19% | 6.34% | ||
With sales charge | -8.95% | -0.99% | 5.72% | ||
C Class | ACIKX | -4.19% | -0.59% | 5.51% | 11/30/06 |
R Class | ACIRX | -3.68% | -0.08% | 6.06% | 11/30/06 |
Sales charges include initial sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSCs), as applicable. A Class shares have a 5.75% maximum initial sales charge and may be subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. C Class shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase are subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. The SEC requires that mutual funds provide performance information net of maximum sales charges in all cases where charges could be applied.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
3
Growth of $10,000 Over 10 Years |
$10,000 investment made June 30, 2009 |
Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure. |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $18,921 | |
MSCI EAFE Index — $19,491 | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | ||||
Investor Class | I Class | A Class | C Class | R Class |
1.16% | 0.96% | 1.41% | 2.16% | 1.66% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
4
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Elizabeth Xie and Vinod Chandrashekaran
Effective August 2019, portfolio manager Vinod Chandrashekaran will leave the fund's management team.
Performance Summary
International Core Equity returned -3.18%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, compared with the 1.08% return of its benchmark, the MSCI EAFE Index.
International Core Equity lost value and trailed the MSCI EAFE Index. Stock selection in the industrials and consumer discretionary sectors weighed on the fund’s relative results, while consumer staples and real estate sectors holdings aided relative returns. From a geographical perspective, underperformance was most pronounced in stock choices from France and Japan, while stock selection in the U.K. and Switzerland was beneficial.
Stock Choices Across Several Sectors Detracted from Relative Returns
Stock choices in the industrials sector were the largest drivers of underperformance. Selection within aerospace and defense weighed the most on relative returns, particularly overweight positions in France-based Dassault Aviation, which was among the top individual detractors for the period. The stock maintains high scores for quality and valuation factors. Security choices in industrial conglomerates also provided a headwind, as did selections in air freight and logistics, where a position in U.K.-based Royal Mail was among the worst performing stocks for the 12 months. We have since exited the stock.
Within the consumer discretionary sector, stock selection also hindered returns. Positions in several auto components and automobiles companies detracted from relative performance. Japan-based Isuzu Motors was a top detractor from performance. The automaker’s stock fell in May during a global pullback in equity markets due to resurfacing trade difficulties between the U.S. and China. The company maintains a high valuation score. Elsewhere in the sector, a position in Japan-based Nikon was also a leading individual detractor. Security choices in the specialty retail industry also weighed on returns. Other top individual detractors included Germany-based chemicals company Covestro and France-based food retailer Casino Guichard Perrachon. We have since exited both positions.
On a country basis, over the past 12 months France, Japan, Denmark, Australia and China were the largest detractors.
Consumer Staples and Real Estate Were Additive
Stock selection within the consumer staples sector contributed to relative returns. Positioning within the food products industry was particularly additive, with Australia-based a2 Milk Co. as one of the top individual performing stocks for the period. The stock maintains high scores for sentiment and quality. In the tobacco industry, it was beneficial to have no exposure to U.K.-based British American Tobacco. The company has poor scores for sentiment and quality, and avoiding the stock made a significant contribution to performance compared with the benchmark.
*All fund returns referenced in this commentary are for Investor Class shares. Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure; when Investor Class performance exceeds that of the fund’s benchmark, other share classes may not. See page 3 for returns for all share classes.
5
Within real estate, selections within the equity real estate investment trusts (REITs) industry was beneficial, as were choices within real estate management and development. Among other notable individual contributors were positions in Japan-based health care company Hoya and Switzerland-based Roche Holding. The U.K., Switzerland, New Zealand and Israel were the largest contributors to relative returns on a country basis.
Portfolio Positioning
We utilize a structured, disciplined investment approach for both stock selection and portfolio construction. At the sector level, information technology was the fund’s largest overweight position. Based on our model, we believe the sector offers high-quality earnings growth at attractive valuations. Energy was another notable overweight position. This reflects an allocation to oil, gas and consumable fuels companies, where we currently see opportunities based on our model. Key underweights are in the industrials sector, where we see a lack of opportunity in electrical equipment and machinery companies. In the financials sector, our underweight reflects a comparative lack of exposure to banks and capital markets companies.
On a country basis, we decreased our emerging markets exposure during the period. We also pared back our exposure to Japan, moving from a relative overweight to an underweight position. We also maintain an underweight exposure to Australia. Our greatest allocation increases during the period were France and Germany. As of the end of the period, South Korea and Italy were our largest relative overweights.
6
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Holdings | % of net assets |
Nestle SA | 2.9% |
Royal Dutch Shell plc, B Shares | 2.4% |
Roche Holding AG | 2.0% |
Novartis AG | 1.8% |
iShares MSCI Japan ETF | 1.7% |
Allianz SE | 1.4% |
BHP Group plc | 1.4% |
GlaxoSmithKline plc | 1.4% |
LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE | 1.3% |
L'Oreal SA | 1.2% |
Investments by Country | % of net assets |
Japan | 17.3% |
United Kingdom | 14.9% |
France | 11.3% |
Switzerland | 9.5% |
Germany | 8.2% |
Spain | 4.2% |
Italy | 4.0% |
Netherlands | 3.8% |
Australia | 3.7% |
Sweden | 3.1% |
Hong Kong | 3.0% |
Singapore | 2.6% |
Other Countries | 9.7% |
Exchange-Traded Funds* | 2.9% |
Cash and Equivalents** | 1.8% |
* Category may increase exposure to the countries indicated. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund's portfolio holdings. | |
** Includes temporary cash investments, temporary cash investment-securities lending collateral and other assets and liabilities. | |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Common Stocks | 95.3% |
Exchange-Traded Funds | 2.9% |
Rights | —* |
Total Equity Exposure | 98.2% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 1.4% |
Temporary Cash Investments - Securities Lending Collateral | 0.6% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | (0.2)% |
*Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets.
7
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
If you hold Investor Class shares of any American Century Investments fund, or I Class shares of the American Century Diversified Bond Fund, in an American Century Investments account (i.e., not a financial intermediary or retirement plan account), American Century Investments may charge you a $12.50 semiannual account maintenance fee if the value of those shares is less than $10,000. We will redeem shares automatically in one of your accounts to pay the $12.50 fee. In determining your total eligible investment amount, we will include your investments in all personal accounts (including American Century Investments Brokerage accounts) registered under your Social Security number. Personal accounts include individual accounts, joint accounts, UGMA/UTMA accounts, personal trusts, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and IRAs (including traditional, Roth, Rollover, SEP-, SARSEP- and SIMPLE-IRAs), and certain other retirement accounts. If you have only business, business retirement, employer-sponsored or American Century Investments Brokerage accounts, you are currently not subject to this fee. If you are subject to the Account Maintenance Fee, your account value could be reduced by the fee amount.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
8
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,119.80 | $6.10 | 1.16% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,121.00 | $5.05 | 0.96% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,118.30 | $7.41 | 1.41% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,113.40 | $11.32 | 2.16% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,117.30 | $8.71 | 1.66% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,019.04 | $5.81 | 1.16% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,020.03 | $4.81 | 0.96% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,017.80 | $7.05 | 1.41% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,014.08 | $10.79 | 2.16% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,016.56 | $8.30 | 1.66% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
9
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 95.3% | ||||
Australia — 3.7% | ||||
Australia & New Zealand Banking Group Ltd. | 15,241 | $ | 302,231 | |
CIMIC Group Ltd. | 5,462 | 172,012 | ||
Inghams Group Ltd.(1) | 49,386 | 139,546 | ||
Super Retail Group Ltd.(1) | 16,389 | 94,746 | ||
Telstra Corp. Ltd. | 89,530 | 242,185 | ||
Whitehaven Coal Ltd. | 24,677 | 63,755 | ||
1,014,475 | ||||
Belgium — 0.5% | ||||
KBC Group NV | 2,000 | 131,105 | ||
Brazil — 0.7% | ||||
Petroleo Brasileiro SA ADR | 7,200 | 102,240 | ||
Vale SA ADR | 6,200 | 83,328 | ||
185,568 | ||||
China — 0.8% | ||||
Country Garden Holdings Co. Ltd. | 14,000 | 21,208 | ||
Weichai Power Co. Ltd., H Shares | 72,000 | 121,863 | ||
Yuexiu Property Co. Ltd. | 316,000 | 71,707 | ||
214,778 | ||||
Denmark — 1.6% | ||||
Carlsberg A/S, B Shares | 1,500 | 198,901 | ||
H Lundbeck A/S | 1,732 | 68,492 | ||
Novo Nordisk A/S, B Shares | 3,459 | 176,443 | ||
443,836 | ||||
Finland — 0.2% | ||||
Kone Oyj, B Shares | 928 | 54,771 | ||
France — 11.3% | ||||
Air France-KLM(2) | 12,349 | 118,693 | ||
CNP Assurances | 10,564 | 239,867 | ||
Danone SA | 1,936 | 164,193 | ||
Dassault Aviation SA | 135 | 194,418 | ||
Dassault Systemes SE | 493 | 78,765 | ||
Eiffage SA | 495 | 48,938 | ||
Faurecia SA | 1,247 | 57,884 | ||
Gaztransport Et Technigaz SA | 1,983 | 198,788 | ||
Hermes International | 76 | 54,814 | ||
Kering SA | 483 | 285,716 | ||
L'Oreal SA | 1,208 | 344,093 | ||
Lagardere SCA | 2,288 | 59,580 | ||
LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE | 870 | 370,352 | ||
Metropole Television SA | 3,906 | 74,068 | ||
Peugeot SA | 9,524 | 234,727 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
Safran SA | 749 | $ | 109,752 | |
Television Francaise 1 | 9,265 | 97,809 | ||
TOTAL SA | 4,562 | 255,249 | ||
Ubisoft Entertainment SA(2) | 1,600 | 125,440 | ||
3,113,146 | ||||
Germany — 8.2% | ||||
adidas AG | 980 | 302,550 | ||
Allianz SE | 1,661 | 400,326 | ||
Deutsche Telekom AG | 17,875 | 309,336 | ||
Dialog Semiconductor plc(2) | 2,530 | 102,063 | ||
Evotec SE(2) | 2,627 | 73,424 | ||
HOCHTIEF AG | 367 | 44,695 | ||
HUGO BOSS AG | 1,459 | 97,234 | ||
Merck KGaA | 1,200 | 125,561 | ||
MTU Aero Engines AG | 925 | 220,685 | ||
RTL Group SA | 585 | 30,021 | ||
RWE AG | 7,132 | 175,816 | ||
SAP SE | 2,305 | 316,848 | ||
Siltronic AG | 927 | 67,779 | ||
2,266,338 | ||||
Hong Kong — 3.0% | ||||
Champion REIT | 143,000 | 118,988 | ||
CLP Holdings Ltd. | 13,000 | 143,232 | ||
Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Ltd. | 3,800 | 134,314 | ||
Kerry Properties Ltd. | 22,000 | 92,439 | ||
Link REIT | 1,500 | 18,450 | ||
Sands China Ltd. | 24,400 | 116,964 | ||
Swire Properties Ltd. | 50,200 | 202,901 | ||
827,288 | ||||
Israel — 1.2% | ||||
Mizrahi Tefahot Bank Ltd.(2) | 1,271 | 29,401 | ||
Nice Ltd.(2) | 1,245 | 170,396 | ||
Wix.com Ltd.(2) | 1,000 | 142,100 | ||
341,897 | ||||
Italy — 4.0% | ||||
ACEA SpA | 3,081 | 58,620 | ||
Enel SpA | 15,978 | 111,642 | ||
Eni SpA | 15,183 | 251,497 | ||
EXOR NV | 2,769 | 193,505 | ||
Ferrari NV | 288 | 46,769 | ||
Moncler SpA | 3,200 | 136,816 | ||
Unipol Gruppo SpA | 22,354 | 108,641 | ||
UnipolSai Assicurazioni SpA(1) | 72,200 | 185,170 | ||
1,092,660 | ||||
Japan — 17.3% | ||||
Amada Holdings Co. Ltd. | 6,200 | 70,519 | ||
Astellas Pharma, Inc. | 16,100 | 229,878 |
11
Shares | Value | |||
Bandai Namco Holdings, Inc. | 2,300 | $ | 111,839 | |
Brother Industries Ltd. | 7,400 | 140,171 | ||
Canon, Inc. | 2,400 | 70,292 | ||
Chugai Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. | 2,000 | 130,821 | ||
Eisai Co. Ltd. | 1,100 | 62,066 | ||
FANUC Corp. | 200 | 37,127 | ||
Honda Motor Co. Ltd. | 400 | 10,361 | ||
Hoya Corp. | 4,000 | 307,252 | ||
Isuzu Motors Ltd. | 14,000 | 160,204 | ||
KDDI Corp. | 7,600 | 193,622 | ||
Keyence Corp. | 100 | 61,454 | ||
Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corp. | 29,000 | 202,944 | ||
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. | 3,000 | 130,778 | ||
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. | 36,900 | 176,403 | ||
Nikon Corp. | 13,600 | 192,799 | ||
Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp. | 3,400 | 158,450 | ||
Nissan Chemical Corp. | 3,700 | 167,074 | ||
NTT DOCOMO, Inc. | 6,600 | 154,035 | ||
ORIX Corp. | 14,900 | 222,734 | ||
Recruit Holdings Co. Ltd. | 4,700 | 157,126 | ||
SG Holdings Co. Ltd. | 7,500 | 212,824 | ||
Shionogi & Co. Ltd. | 3,700 | 213,644 | ||
SoftBank Group Corp. | 2,000 | 96,377 | ||
Sony Corp. | 4,500 | 235,120 | ||
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc. | 1,600 | 56,656 | ||
Suzuken Co. Ltd. | 1,500 | 88,163 | ||
Suzuki Motor Corp. | 4,300 | 202,397 | ||
Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. | 700 | 24,881 | ||
Tokio Marine Holdings, Inc. | 900 | 45,167 | ||
Tokyo Electron Ltd. | 1,400 | 196,847 | ||
Toyota Motor Corp. | 3,000 | 186,465 | ||
Trend Micro, Inc. | 1,900 | 84,875 | ||
4,791,365 | ||||
Netherlands — 3.8% | ||||
ASR Nederland NV | 3,822 | 155,593 | ||
Coca-Cola European Partners plc | 4,300 | 242,950 | ||
Heineken Holding NV | 1,534 | 161,033 | ||
NN Group NV | 1,078 | 43,398 | ||
SBM Offshore NV | 6,920 | 133,954 | ||
Unilever NV CVA | 3,355 | 204,367 | ||
Wolters Kluwer NV | 1,492 | 108,622 | ||
1,049,917 | ||||
New Zealand — 1.3% | ||||
a2 Milk Co. Ltd.(2) | 20,716 | 204,593 | ||
Contact Energy Ltd. | 28,000 | 150,562 | ||
355,155 |
12
Shares | Value | |||
Norway — 0.6% | ||||
Equinor ASA | 7,884 | $ | 156,198 | |
Singapore — 2.6% | ||||
ComfortDelGro Corp. Ltd. | 79,000 | 155,347 | ||
Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp. Ltd. | 29,200 | 246,884 | ||
Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd. | 63,400 | 194,337 | ||
United Overseas Bank Ltd. | 6,800 | 131,385 | ||
727,953 | ||||
South Korea — 1.9% | ||||
Daelim Industrial Co. Ltd. | 1,339 | 133,454 | ||
LG Household & Health Care Ltd. Preference Shares | 197 | 137,480 | ||
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. | 4,700 | 191,628 | ||
SK Hynix, Inc. | 1,206 | 72,648 | ||
535,210 | ||||
Spain — 4.2% | ||||
ACS Actividades de Construccion y Servicios SA | 4,500 | 179,679 | ||
Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA | 45,668 | 255,384 | ||
Banco Santander SA | 45,068 | 209,470 | ||
Iberdrola SA | 29,738 | 296,633 | ||
Telefonica SA | 27,367 | 224,729 | ||
1,165,895 | ||||
Sweden — 3.1% | ||||
Axfood AB | 10,639 | 210,524 | ||
Lundin Petroleum AB | 5,128 | 159,589 | ||
Sandvik AB | 11,666 | 214,345 | ||
Swedish Match AB | 443 | 18,723 | ||
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, B Shares | 27,601 | 261,942 | ||
865,123 | ||||
Switzerland — 9.5% | ||||
Logitech International SA | 5,071 | 203,150 | ||
Nestle SA | 7,719 | 799,138 | ||
Novartis AG | 5,444 | 497,946 | ||
Roche Holding AG | 1,978 | 556,543 | ||
Sonova Holding AG | 289 | 65,784 | ||
Temenos AG(2) | 940 | 168,320 | ||
Zurich Insurance Group AG | 940 | 327,320 | ||
2,618,201 | ||||
Taiwan — 0.9% | ||||
Taiwan Cement Corp. | 65,000 | 96,417 | ||
Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. | 103,000 | 151,842 | ||
248,259 | ||||
United Kingdom — 14.9% | ||||
Aggreko plc | 20,741 | 208,101 | ||
Anglo American plc | 9,749 | 278,861 | ||
AstraZeneca plc | 697 | 56,899 | ||
BHP Group plc | 15,053 | 384,188 | ||
BP plc | 10,000 | 69,884 |
13
Shares | Value | |||
Burberry Group plc | 1,778 | $ | 42,182 | |
Coca-Cola HBC AG(2) | 2,826 | 106,939 | ||
Dunelm Group plc | 7,000 | 81,787 | ||
Evraz plc | 17,309 | 146,749 | ||
GlaxoSmithKline plc | 18,724 | 374,809 | ||
HSBC Holdings plc | 26,172 | 218,355 | ||
Legal & General Group plc | 66,619 | 228,031 | ||
Lloyds Banking Group plc | 177,100 | 127,537 | ||
Micro Focus International plc | 2,682 | 70,432 | ||
Moneysupermarket.com Group plc | 36,240 | 189,992 | ||
National Express Group plc | 6,311 | 32,196 | ||
Rio Tinto plc | 4,797 | 295,951 | ||
Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc | 18,600 | 51,929 | ||
Royal Dutch Shell plc, B Shares | 20,278 | 661,439 | ||
Sage Group plc (The) | 20,480 | 208,960 | ||
Smith & Nephew plc | 3,368 | 73,086 | ||
Tate & Lyle plc | 18,606 | 174,476 | ||
Unilever plc | 691 | 42,910 | ||
4,125,693 | ||||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $24,987,295) | 26,324,831 | |||
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS — 2.9% | ||||
iShares China Large-Cap ETF | 1,800 | 76,986 | ||
iShares MSCI EAFE ETF | 3,900 | 256,347 | ||
iShares MSCI Japan ETF | 8,536 | 465,895 | ||
TOTAL EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS (Cost $779,678) | 799,228 | |||
RIGHTS† | ||||
Spain† | ||||
ACS Actividades de Construccion y Servicios SA(2) (Cost $7,420) | 4,500 | 7,061 | ||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 1.4% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $345,023), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $338,819) | 338,755 | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 63,645 | 63,645 | ||
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $402,400) | 402,400 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS - SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL(3) — 0.6% | ||||
State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio (Cost $160,463) | 160,463 | 160,463 | ||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES — 100.2% (Cost $26,337,256) | 27,693,983 | |||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — (0.2)% | (58,831 | ) | ||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 27,635,152 |
14
MARKET SECTOR DIVERSIFICATION | ||
(as a % of net assets) | ||
Financials | 15.7 | % |
Consumer Discretionary | 11.6 | % |
Health Care | 11.5 | % |
Consumer Staples | 11.3 | % |
Industrials | 11.1 | % |
Information Technology | 9.2 | % |
Energy | 7.4 | % |
Communication Services | 6.5 | % |
Materials | 5.9 | % |
Utilities | 3.4 | % |
Real Estate | 1.7 | % |
Exchange-Traded Funds | 2.9 | % |
Cash and Equivalents* | 1.8 | % |
* Includes temporary cash investments, temporary cash investment - securities lending collateral, and other
assets and liabilities.
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | ||
ADR | - | American Depositary Receipt |
CVA | - | Certificaten Van Aandelen |
† | Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets. |
(1) | Security, or a portion thereof, is on loan. At the period end, the aggregate value of securities on loan was $245,044. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers. |
(2) | Non-income producing. |
(3) | Investment of cash collateral from securities on loan. At the period end, the aggregate market value of the collateral held by the fund was $258,435, which includes securities collateral of $97,972. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
15
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $26,176,793) | $ | 27,533,520 | |
Investment made with cash collateral received for securities on loan, at value (cost of $160,463) | 160,463 | ||
Total investment securities, at value (cost of $26,337,256) | 27,693,983 | ||
Foreign currency holdings, at value (cost of $12,401) | 12,400 | ||
Receivable for capital shares sold | 10,984 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 103,484 | ||
Securities lending receivable | 689 | ||
27,821,540 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Payable for collateral received for securities on loan | 160,463 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 141 | ||
Accrued management fees | 24,490 | ||
Distribution and service fees payable | 1,294 | ||
186,388 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 27,635,152 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 28,453,169 | |
Distributable earnings | (818,017 | ) | |
$ | 27,635,152 |
Net Assets | Shares Outstanding | Net Asset Value Per Share | ||||
Investor Class, $0.01 Par Value | $19,225,251 | 2,213,070 | $8.69 | |||
I Class, $0.01 Par Value | $3,584,997 | 411,755 | $8.71 | |||
A Class, $0.01 Par Value | $3,887,890 | 447,041 | $8.70* | |||
C Class, $0.01 Par Value | $333,335 | 38,566 | $8.64 | |||
R Class, $0.01 Par Value | $603,679 | 69,662 | $8.67 |
* Maximum offering price $9.23 (net asset value divided by 0.9425).
See Notes to Financial Statements.
16
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $84,024) | $ | 923,683 | |
Interest | 5,628 | ||
Securities lending, net | 3,629 | ||
932,940 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Management fees | 303,188 | ||
Distribution and service fees: | |||
A Class | 9,496 | ||
C Class | 5,800 | ||
R Class | 2,821 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 1,938 | ||
Other expenses | 1,632 | ||
324,875 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 608,065 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | (2,419,133 | ) | |
Foreign currency translation transactions | (2,762 | ) | |
(2,421,895 | ) | ||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments | 822,574 | ||
Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | 1,475 | ||
824,049 | |||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | (1,597,846 | ) | |
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | (989,781 | ) |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
17
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 608,065 | $ | 653,860 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | (2,421,895 | ) | 2,919,253 | |||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 824,049 | (2,121,279 | ) | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | (989,781 | ) | 1,451,834 | |||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings: | ||||||
Investor Class | (395,026 | ) | (516,137 | ) | ||
I Class | (139,331 | ) | (127,810 | ) | ||
A Class | (75,200 | ) | (83,615 | ) | ||
C Class | (8,304 | ) | (15,744 | ) | ||
R Class | (10,254 | ) | (11,337 | ) | ||
Decrease in net assets from distributions | (628,115 | ) | (754,643 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions (Note 5) | (2,860,420 | ) | 1,205,674 | |||
Redemption Fees | ||||||
Increase in net assets from redemption fees | — | 1,256 | ||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (4,478,316 | ) | 1,904,121 | |||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 32,113,468 | 30,209,347 | ||||
End of period | $ | 27,635,152 | $ | 32,113,468 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
18
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. International Core Equity Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital growth.
The fund offers the Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class and R Class. The A Class may incur an initial sales charge. The A Class and C Class may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price. Equity securities initially expressed in local currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the mean of the appropriate currency exchange rate at the close of the NYSE as provided by an independent pricing service.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
19
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Securities lending income is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.
Foreign Currency Translations — All assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at prevailing exchange rates at period end. The fund may enter into spot foreign currency exchange contracts to facilitate transactions denominated in a foreign currency. Purchases and sales of investment securities, dividend and interest income, spot foreign currency exchange contracts, and expenses are translated at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Net realized and unrealized foreign currency exchange gains or losses related to investment securities are a component of net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments, respectively.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Segregated Assets — In accordance with the 1940 Act, the fund segregates assets on its books and records to cover certain types of investment securities and other financial instruments. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities segregated to ensure the fund designates a sufficient amount of liquid assets, marked-to-market daily. The fund may also receive assets or be required to pledge assets at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
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Multiple Class — All shares of the fund represent an equal pro rata interest in the net assets of the class to which such shares belong, and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the fund are allocated to each class of shares based on their relative net assets.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income and net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually.
Redemption Fees — Prior to October 9, 2017, the fund may have imposed a 2.00% redemption fee on shares held less than 60 days. The fee was not applicable to all classes. The redemption fee was retained by the fund to help cover transaction costs that long-term investors may bear when the fund sells securities to meet investor redemptions.
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
Securities Lending — Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street Bank & Trust Co. serves as securities lending agent to the fund pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the fund to risks such as: the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the fund may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the fund may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge collateral in the form of cash and/or securities. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the fund in the case of default of any securities borrowed. Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. The loans may also be secured by U.S. government securities in an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned, plus accrued interest and dividends, determined on a daily basis and adjusted accordingly. By lending securities, the fund seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at period end, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2019.
Remaining Contractual Maturity of Agreements | ||||||||||||
Overnight and Continuous | <30 days | Between 30 & 90 days | >90 days | Total | ||||||||
Securities Lending Transactions(1) | ||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 160,463 | — | — | — | $ | 160,463 | |||||
Gross amount of recognized liabilities for securities lending transactions | $ | 160,463 |
(1) | Amount represents the payable for cash collateral received for securities on loan. This will generally be in the Overnight and Continuous column as the securities are typically callable on demand. |
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS), and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC.
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee) per class. The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except distribution and service fees, brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The
21
fee is computed and accrued daily based on each class's daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The difference in the fee among the classes is a result of their separate arrangements for non-Rule 12b-1 shareholder services. It is not the result of any difference in advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the fund’s assets, which do not vary by class. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The Investment Category Fee range, the Complex Fee range and the effective annual management fee for each class for the period ended June 30, 2019 are as follows:
Investment Category Fee Range | Complex Fee Range | Effective Annual Management Fee | |
Investor Class | 0.8180% to 1.0000% | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.14% |
I Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.94% | |
A Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.14% | |
C Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.14% | |
R Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.14% |
Distribution and Service Fees — The Board of Directors has adopted a separate Master Distribution and Individual Shareholder Services Plan for each of the A Class, C Class and R Class (collectively the plans), pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act. The plans provide that the A Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.25%. The plans provide that the C Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 1.00%, of which 0.25% is paid for individual shareholder services and 0.75% is paid for distribution services. The plans provide that the R Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.50%. The fees are computed and accrued daily based on each class’s daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The fees are used to pay financial intermediaries for distribution and individual shareholder services. Fees incurred under the plans during the period ended June 30, 2019 are detailed in the Statement of Operations.
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $110,931 and $43,515, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $848 in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $25,516,168 and $28,676,484, respectively.
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5. Capital Share Transactions
Transactions in shares of the fund were as follows:
Year ended June 30, 2019 | Year ended June 30, 2018 | |||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||
Investor Class/Shares Authorized | 40,000,000 | 40,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 780,503 | $ | 6,681,327 | 645,731 | $ | 6,175,791 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 49,907 | 388,273 | 53,279 | 506,681 | ||||||
Redeemed | (838,502 | ) | (7,294,153 | ) | (802,902 | ) | (7,685,849 | ) | ||
(8,092 | ) | (224,553 | ) | (103,892 | ) | (1,003,377 | ) | |||
I Class/Shares Authorized | 25,000,000 | 25,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 306,787 | 2,527,494 | 350,565 | 3,358,023 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 17,886 | 139,331 | 13,145 | 125,144 | ||||||
Redeemed | (536,468 | ) | (4,537,339 | ) | (196,352 | ) | (1,911,066 | ) | ||
(211,795 | ) | (1,870,514 | ) | 167,358 | 1,572,101 | |||||
A Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 110,201 | 945,268 | 149,264 | 1,427,760 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 9,608 | 74,944 | 8,758 | 83,549 | ||||||
Redeemed | (136,080 | ) | (1,187,226 | ) | (61,528 | ) | (590,835 | ) | ||
(16,271 | ) | (167,014 | ) | 96,494 | 920,474 | |||||
C Class/Shares Authorized | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 2,052 | 17,590 | 13,943 | 130,619 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 924 | 7,199 | 1,529 | 14,542 | ||||||
Redeemed | (72,125 | ) | (617,982 | ) | (34,929 | ) | (336,899 | ) | ||
(69,149 | ) | (593,193 | ) | (19,457 | ) | (191,738 | ) | |||
R Class/Shares Authorized | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 15,088 | 131,849 | 17,529 | 166,488 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 1,316 | 10,254 | 1,192 | 11,337 | ||||||
Redeemed | (16,373 | ) | (147,249 | ) | (27,973 | ) | (269,611 | ) | ||
31 | (5,146 | ) | (9,252 | ) | (91,786 | ) | ||||
Net increase (decrease) | (305,276 | ) | $ | (2,860,420 | ) | 131,251 | $ | 1,205,674 |
6. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
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The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 570,618 | $ | 25,754,213 | — | |||
Exchange-Traded Funds | 799,228 | — | — | |||||
Rights | — | 7,061 | — | |||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 63,645 | 338,755 | — | |||||
Temporary Cash Investments - Securities Lending Collateral | 160,463 | — | — | |||||
$ | 1,593,954 | $ | 26,100,029 | — |
7. Risk Factors
There are certain risks involved in investing in foreign securities. These risks include those resulting from political events (such as civil unrest, national elections and imposition of exchange controls), social and economic events (such as labor strikes and rising inflation), and natural disasters. Securities of foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile. Investing in emerging markets or a significant portion of assets in one country or region may accentuate these risks.
8. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 628,115 | $ | 754,643 | ||
Long-term capital gains | — | — |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 26,402,985 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 2,267,392 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (976,394 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | 1,290,998 | ||
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) on translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | 405 | ||
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) | $ | 1,291,403 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $ | 402,342 | |
Accumulated short-term capital losses | $ | (2,511,762 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
Accumulated capital losses represent net capital loss carryovers that may be used to offset future realized capital gains for federal income tax purposes. The capital loss carryovers may be carried forward for an unlimited period. Future capital loss carryover utilization in any given year may be subject to Internal Revenue Code limitations.
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Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | ||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Distributions From Net Investment Income | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | |||||||||||||
2019 | $9.21 | 0.20 | (0.52) | (0.32) | (0.20) | $8.69 | (3.18)% | 1.15% | 2.24% | 93% | $19,225 | ||
2018 | $9.01 | 0.19 | 0.23 | 0.42 | (0.22) | $9.21 | 4.69% | 1.15% | 1.97% | 99% | $20,459 | ||
2017 | $7.71 | 0.18 | 1.33 | 1.51 | (0.21) | $9.01 | 19.92% | 1.15% | 2.19% | 113% | $20,938 | ||
2016 | $8.89 | 0.16 | (1.18) | (1.02) | (0.16) | $7.71 | (11.53)% | 1.17% | 1.94% | 117% | $19,646 | ||
2015 | $9.68 | 0.24 | (0.75) | (0.51) | (0.28) | $8.89 | (5.11)% | 1.15% | 2.67% | 96% | $22,366 | ||
I Class | |||||||||||||
2019 | $9.23 | 0.20 | (0.50) | (0.30) | (0.22) | $8.71 | (2.98)% | 0.95% | 2.44% | 93% | $3,585 | ||
2018 | $9.02 | 0.22 | 0.23 | 0.45 | (0.24) | $9.23 | 4.89% | 0.95% | 2.17% | 99% | $5,756 | ||
2017 | $7.72 | 0.20 | 1.33 | 1.53 | (0.23) | $9.02 | 20.26% | 0.95% | 2.39% | 113% | $4,117 | ||
2016 | $8.90 | 0.17 | (1.17) | (1.00) | (0.18) | $7.72 | (11.34)% | 0.97% | 2.14% | 117% | $1,183 | ||
2015 | $9.69 | 0.26 | (0.75) | (0.49) | (0.30) | $8.90 | (4.91)% | 0.95% | 2.87% | 96% | $1,621 | ||
A Class | |||||||||||||
2019 | $9.22 | 0.18 | (0.52) | (0.34) | (0.18) | $8.70 | (3.42)% | 1.40% | 1.99% | 93% | $3,888 | ||
2018 | $9.01 | 0.17 | 0.23 | 0.40 | (0.19) | $9.22 | 4.41% | 1.40% | 1.72% | 99% | $4,272 | ||
2017 | $7.71 | 0.15 | 1.34 | 1.49 | (0.19) | $9.01 | 19.74% | 1.40% | 1.94% | 113% | $3,307 | ||
2016 | $8.89 | 0.13 | (1.17) | (1.04) | (0.14) | $7.71 | (11.75)% | 1.42% | 1.69% | 117% | $6,441 | ||
2015 | $9.67 | 0.24 | (0.76) | (0.52) | (0.26) | $8.89 | (5.25)% | 1.40% | 2.42% | 96% | $8,196 |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | ||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Distributions From Net Investment Income | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
C Class | |||||||||||||
2019 | $9.16 | 0.08 | (0.48) | (0.40) | (0.12) | $8.64 | (4.19)% | 2.15% | 1.24% | 93% | $333 | ||
2018 | $8.96 | 0.08 | 0.24 | 0.32 | (0.12) | $9.16 | 3.54% | 2.15% | 0.97% | 99% | $987 | ||
2017 | $7.66 | 0.10 | 1.33 | 1.43 | (0.13) | $8.96 | 18.96% | 2.15% | 1.19% | 113% | $1,139 | ||
2016 | $8.84 | 0.08 | (1.18) | (1.10) | (0.08) | $7.66 | (12.48)% | 2.17% | 0.94% | 117% | $1,134 | ||
2015 | $9.62 | 0.13 | (0.72) | (0.59) | (0.19) | $8.84 | (6.02)% | 2.15% | 1.67% | 96% | $1,141 | ||
R Class | |||||||||||||
2019 | $9.19 | 0.16 | (0.52) | (0.36) | (0.16) | $8.67 | (3.68)% | 1.65% | 1.74% | 93% | $604 | ||
2018 | $8.98 | 0.13 | 0.25 | 0.38 | (0.17) | $9.19 | 4.17% | 1.65% | 1.47% | 99% | $640 | ||
2017 | $7.69 | 0.14 | 1.32 | 1.46 | (0.17) | $8.98 | 19.36% | 1.65% | 1.69% | 113% | $709 | ||
2016 | $8.86 | 0.12 | (1.17) | (1.05) | (0.12) | $7.69 | (11.90)% | 1.67% | 1.44% | 117% | $583 | ||
2015 | $9.65 | 0.16 | (0.72) | (0.56) | (0.23) | $8.86 | (5.61)% | 1.65% | 2.17% | 96% | $538 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day and do not reflect applicable sales charges, if any. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of International Core Equity Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of International Core Equity Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
27
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
28
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
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Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
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Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
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Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was above its benchmark for the five- and ten-year periods and below its benchmark for the one- and three-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
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Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer universe. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
33
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
34
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
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Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, the fund intends to pass through to shareholders foreign source income of $923,126 and foreign taxes paid of $73,866, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as a foreign tax credit. Foreign source income and foreign tax expense per outstanding share on June 30, 2019 are $0.2903 and $0.0232, respectively.
36
Notes |
37
Notes |
38
Notes |
39
Notes |
40
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92985 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
Multi-Asset Real Return Fund | |
Investor Class (ASIOX) | |
I Class (ASINX) | |
A Class (ASIDX) | |
C Class (ASIZX) | |
R Class (ASIUX) | |
R5 Class (AMRUX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
President's Letter | 2 | |
Performance | 3 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
President’s Letter |
Jonathan Thomas
Dear Investor:
Thank you for reviewing this annual report for the period ended June 30, 2019. Annual reports help convey important information about fund returns, including market factors that affected performance during the reporting period. For additional investment and market insights, we encourage you to visit our website, americancentury.com.
Markets Overcame Heightened Volatility
Most broad large- and mid-cap stock indices ended the 12-month period with gains. However, these positive results masked some severe volatility, which led to wide performance swings. For example, the S&P 500 Index returned -6.85% in the first half of the period and 18.54% in the second half, leaving the index up 10.42% for the year. Even more dramatic, the S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index returned -21.91% in the first half of the reporting period, 13.34% in the second half, and -11.49% overall.
Fed’s Flip Fueled Investor Optimism
In the first half, mounting concerns about slowing global economic and earnings growth and Federal Reserve (Fed) policy soured investor sentiment. After raising rates in September, the Fed hiked again in December and delivered a surprisingly hawkish rate-hike outlook that worried investors and fueled a steep sell-off among riskier assets. Meanwhile, the risk-off climate sparked a flight to quality. Treasury yields plunged, triggering a rally among perceived safe-haven assets.
The new year brought a renewed sense of stability to financial markets and a key policy pivot from the Fed. The central bank abruptly and unexpectedly ended its rate-hike campaign and adopted a dovish tone amid moderating global growth and inflation. Additionally, investors’ worst-case fears about growth, trade and corporate earnings eased. Equity valuations appeared attractive, and a rally ensued. At the same time, Treasury yields continued to fall on moderating global growth data, muted inflation and accommodative central bank policy, which supported continued gains for interest rate-sensitive assets.
Looking ahead, we expect volatility to remain a formidable factor as investors react to global growth and trade trends, central bank policy and geopolitical developments. We believe this scenario underscores the importance of using professionally managed portfolios in pursuit of your investment goals. We appreciate your continued trust and confidence in us.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Thomas
President and Chief Executive Officer
American Century Investments
2
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | |||||
Average Annual Returns | |||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | Since Inception | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | ASIOX | 5.33% | 1.30% | 1.54% | 4/30/10 |
Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (TIPS) Index | — | 4.84% | 1.75% | 3.10% | — |
I Class | ASINX | 5.56% | 1.50% | 1.74% | 4/30/10 |
A Class | ASIDX | 4/30/10 | |||
No sales charge | 5.07% | 1.04% | 1.28% | ||
With sales charge | -1.00% | -0.16% | 0.63% | ||
C Class | ASIZX | 4.25% | 0.28% | 0.52% | 4/30/10 |
R Class | ASIUX | 4.73% | 0.77% | 1.03% | 4/30/10 |
R5 Class | AMRUX | 5.46% | — | 6.30% | 4/10/17 |
Fund returns would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
Sales charges include initial sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSCs), as applicable. A Class shares have a 5.75% maximum initial sales charge and may be subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. C Class shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase are subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. The SEC requires that mutual funds provide performance information net of maximum sales charges in all cases where charges could be applied.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
3
Growth of $10,000 Over Life of Class |
$10,000 investment made April 30, 2010 |
Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure. |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $11,507 | |
Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (TIPS) Index — $13,237 | |
Ending value of Investor Class would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | |||||
Investor Class | I Class | A Class | C Class | R Class | R5 Class |
0.93% | 0.73% | 1.18% | 1.93% | 1.43% | 0.73% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
4
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Bob Gahagan, Brian Howell, John Lovito, Steven Brown and Peruvemba Satish
Performance Summary
For the 12 months ended June 30, 2019, Multi-Asset Real Return returned 5.33%*. The Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (TIPS) Index returned 4.84%. Fund returns reflect operating expenses, while index returns do not.
Despite a muted inflation backdrop, the fund’s performance reflected the generally positive backdrop for equity and fixed-income investments that typically provide investor protection against the primary sources of inflation. The all-TIPS benchmark advanced, aided by the relative outperformance of longer-duration securities. However, TIPS underperformed nominal U.S. Treasuries, as the market’s longer-term inflation expectations declined during the period.
U.S. Inflation Data Moderated
Although the U.S. economic growth rate moderated slightly during the 12-month reporting period, growth remained upbeat. For example, the U.S. economy grew at an annualized pace of 3.4% in the third quarter of 2018, 2.2% in the following quarter, 3.1% in the first quarter of 2019 and 2.1% in the second quarter. Meanwhile, key measures of U.S. inflation and inflation expectations declined sharply. For example, year-over-year headline inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), fell from 2.9% in June 2018 to 1.6% in June 2019. Falling year-over-year energy prices—particularly oil, which tumbled more than 21% (West Texas Intermediate Crude) for the period—accounted for most of the decline. Core CPI, which does not include food and energy prices, declined at a more modest pace, from 2.3% in June 2018 to 2.1% a year later. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve's (Fed's) preferred measure of U.S. inflation, core personal consumption expenditures, tumbled from 2.0% in June 2018 to 1.6% in June 2019, below the Fed’s 2.0% target.
Similarly, the market’s expectations for longer-term inflation, as measured by the 10-year breakeven rate (the yield difference between 10-year TIPS and nominal 10-year U.S. Treasuries), declined, from 213 basis points (bps) in June 2018 to 170 bps a year later. Theoretically, the breakeven rate indicates the market’s expectations for U.S. inflation for the next 10 years (2.13% in June 2018 versus 1.70% in June 2019).
Fed policy took a U-turn during the reporting period. After implementing two rate hikes in the second half of 2018, the Fed abruptly halted its tightening campaign in January 2019. By June, slowing global growth, tariffs and heightened trade tensions prompted the Fed to consider easing monetary policy to sustain the expansion. Following the Fed’s June policy meeting, the financial markets expected two rate cuts before year-end and two additional cuts in 2020.
Inflation Modest Outside the U.S.
Outside the U.S., developed markets central banks maintained aggressive stimulus programs in an effort to boost growth and inflation. At the end of June 2019, year-over-year headline inflation in the eurozone was 1.3%, down from 2.0% a year earlier. Annual headline inflation in the U.K. began the reporting period at 2.4% and ended it at 2.0%. In Japan, the annual inflation rate ended the period at 0.7%, unchanged from June 2018.
* All fund returns referenced in this commentary are for Investor Class shares. Returns would have been lower if a portion of the management fee had not been waived. Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structures; when Investor Class performance exceeds that of the fund’s benchmark, other share classes may not. See page 3 for returns for all share classes.
5
Sector Allocations Contributed to Performance
Exposure to global real estate investment trusts (REITs) was a key contributor to portfolio performance. Falling interest rates in the U.S. and other developed markets helped support gains in the rate-sensitive real estate sector. In addition, better-than-expected earnings results and the broad equity market rally in the second half of the reporting period aided property stocks. Our holdings in the retail, industrial and diversified industries added value. From a regional perspective, real estate exposure in the U.S., Australia and the Netherlands contributed to performance.
Other equity positions also were key contributors to performance. Following a steep global stock market sell-off in late 2018, stocks rallied in the first half of 2019. Better-than-feared corporate earnings results, modest global economic growth and accommodative central bank policy more than offset periodic bouts of volatility and lingering concerns about the U.S.-China trade conflict. Within the portfolio’s equity component, we favored exposure to the information technology, health care and industrials sectors.
The portfolio’s fixed-income component also aided performance. After climbing through early November 2018, U.S. Treasury yields generally remained on a downward course through June 2019. Bonds rallied to deliver solid results for the year. Our holdings in securitized bonds, investment-grade and high-yield corporate bonds, emerging markets bonds and inflation-linked securities generally outperformed the all-TIPS benchmark and lifted portfolio performance.
Our exposure to commodity-related investments detracted from results. Commodities prices plunged in the first half of the reporting period, and despite a second-half rally, the asset class declined for the 12-month period overall. In particular, holdings in the energy and metals and mining sectors weighed on results. In addition, the portfolio’s non-dollar currency overlay strategy detracted from performance.
Outlook
We believe inflation likely will remain tame over the next several months, with measures of headline and core inflation eventually converging near 2.0%. In our view, upside inflation risks remain muted in the near term, largely due to slowing global growth and an easing in U.S. home appreciation. Longer term, we believe stabilization in commodities prices coupled with modest global growth, continued wage growth and the effects of central bank stimulus will lead to modestly higher inflation expectations.
Within the portfolio, we will seek to reduce risk within the fixed-income allocation, taking profits among corporate bonds in favor of select holdings within the securitized sector. We believe these securities, particularly collateralized mortgage obligations, commercial mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities, offer better relative value than corporate credit at this point in the credit cycle.
Slowing global growth and trade-related uncertainty remain risks for equity markets. Earnings expectations for 2019 have declined from more than 6% at the beginning of the year to less than 3% at the end of June. Given supportive monetary policy, we maintain an optimistic outlook for equities where secular growth trends drive earnings, but we will monitor for valuations that appear overextended. Energy is well supplied globally, but rising geopolitical risks are likely to keep volatility elevated. In the market for industrial metals, slowing global demand should offset supply disruptions, and our expectations for future returns remain modest at this time. We continue to favor global REITs in this low interest rate environment.
6
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Domestic Common Stocks | 41.9% |
Foreign Common Stocks* | 15.8% |
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations | 6.8% |
Corporate Bonds | 6.1% |
U.S. Treasury Securities | 4.6% |
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities | 4.1% |
Asset-Backed Securities | 3.4% |
Exchange-Traded Funds | 3.2% |
Collateralized Loan Obligations | 1.7% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 13.0% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | (0.6)% |
*Includes depositary shares, dual listed securities and foreign ordinary shares.
7
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
If you hold Investor Class shares of any American Century Investments fund, or I Class shares of the American Century Diversified Bond Fund, in an American Century Investments account (i.e., not a financial intermediary or retirement plan account), American Century Investments may charge you a $12.50 semiannual account maintenance fee if the value of those shares is less than $10,000. We will redeem shares automatically in one of your accounts to pay the $12.50 fee. In determining your total eligible investment amount, we will include your investments in all personal accounts (including American Century Investments Brokerage accounts) registered under your Social Security number. Personal accounts include individual accounts, joint accounts, UGMA/UTMA accounts, personal trusts, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and IRAs (including traditional, Roth, Rollover, SEP-, SARSEP- and SIMPLE-IRAs), and certain other retirement accounts. If you have only business, business retirement, employer-sponsored or American Century Investments Brokerage accounts, you are currently not subject to this fee. If you are subject to the Account Maintenance Fee, your account value could be reduced by the fee amount.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
8
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,112.00 | $4.71 | 0.90% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,112.40 | $3.67 | 0.70% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,109.50 | $6.01 | 1.15% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,105.50 | $9.92 | 1.90% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,108.50 | $7.32 | 1.40% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $1,112.60 | $3.67 | 0.70% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,020.33 | $4.51 | 0.90% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,021.32 | $3.51 | 0.70% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,019.09 | $5.76 | 1.15% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,015.37 | $9.49 | 1.90% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,017.85 | $7.00 | 1.40% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $1,021.32 | $3.51 | 0.70% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
9
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares/ Principal Amount | Value | |||||
COMMON STOCKS — 57.7% | ||||||
Aerospace and Defense — 1.2% | ||||||
Airbus SE | 445 | $ | 63,099 | |||
HEICO Corp. | 293 | 39,206 | ||||
L3Harris Technologies, Inc. | 229 | 43,311 | ||||
145,616 | ||||||
Banks — 1.7% | ||||||
Citigroup, Inc. | 577 | 40,407 | ||||
Citizens Financial Group, Inc. | 1,101 | 38,932 | ||||
JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 314 | 35,105 | ||||
Sterling Bancorp | 1,735 | 36,921 | ||||
SVB Financial Group(1) | 197 | 44,244 | ||||
195,609 | ||||||
Biotechnology — 0.6% | ||||||
Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 275 | 36,019 | ||||
Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 220 | 40,344 | ||||
76,363 | ||||||
Building Products — 0.3% | ||||||
Johnson Controls International plc | 892 | 36,849 | ||||
Chemicals — 1.1% | ||||||
Air Products & Chemicals, Inc. | 109 | 24,674 | ||||
Axalta Coating Systems Ltd.(1) | 625 | 18,606 | ||||
FMC Corp. | 233 | 19,327 | ||||
LyondellBasell Industries NV, Class A | 176 | 15,159 | ||||
Nutrien Ltd. | 227 | 12,136 | ||||
PPG Industries, Inc. | 106 | 12,371 | ||||
Sika AG | 94 | 16,044 | ||||
WR Grace & Co. | 163 | 12,406 | ||||
130,723 | ||||||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 0.7% | ||||||
Cintas Corp. | 170 | 40,339 | ||||
Waste Management, Inc. | 389 | 44,879 | ||||
85,218 | ||||||
Communications Equipment — 0.7% | ||||||
Arista Networks, Inc.(1) | 148 | 38,424 | ||||
Cisco Systems, Inc. | 711 | 38,913 | ||||
77,337 | ||||||
Construction and Engineering — 0.4% | ||||||
Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc. | 506 | 42,701 | ||||
Construction Materials — 0.2% | ||||||
Vulcan Materials Co. | 189 | 25,952 | ||||
Consumer Finance — 0.2% | ||||||
Ally Financial, Inc. | 848 | 26,280 |
10
Shares/ Principal Amount | Value | |||||
Containers and Packaging — 0.2% | ||||||
Sonoco Products Co. | 280 | $ | 18,295 | |||
Electric Utilities — 1.2% | ||||||
FirstEnergy Corp. | 749 | 32,065 | ||||
Iberdrola SA | 3,702 | 36,927 | ||||
NextEra Energy, Inc. | 173 | 35,441 | ||||
Southern Co. (The) | 725 | 40,078 | ||||
144,511 | ||||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 1.3% | ||||||
FLIR Systems, Inc. | 729 | 39,439 | ||||
Keysight Technologies, Inc.(1) | 397 | 35,654 | ||||
Trimble, Inc.(1) | 929 | 41,907 | ||||
Zebra Technologies Corp., Class A(1) | 189 | 39,594 | ||||
156,594 | ||||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 17.7% | ||||||
Advance Residence Investment Corp. | 9 | 26,766 | ||||
Agree Realty Corp. | 650 | 41,632 | ||||
Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. | 605 | 85,359 | ||||
Allied Properties Real Estate Investment Trust | 641 | 23,187 | ||||
Americold Realty Trust | 2,670 | 86,561 | ||||
Boston Properties, Inc. | 375 | 48,375 | ||||
Camden Property Trust | 858 | 89,567 | ||||
Canadian Apartment Properties REIT | 696 | 25,702 | ||||
CapitaLand Commercial Trust | 9,600 | 15,400 | ||||
CareTrust REIT, Inc. | 728 | 17,312 | ||||
Charter Hall Group | 5,747 | 43,783 | ||||
Cousins Properties, Inc. | 493 | 17,832 | ||||
CyrusOne, Inc. | 273 | 15,758 | ||||
Embassy Office Parks REIT(1) | 1,200 | 6,378 | ||||
Equinix, Inc. | 150 | 75,643 | ||||
Equity Residential | 882 | 66,961 | ||||
Essential Properties Realty Trust, Inc. | 872 | 17,475 | ||||
Extra Space Storage, Inc. | 163 | 17,294 | ||||
Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc. | 1,851 | 72,152 | ||||
Gecina SA | 182 | 27,237 | ||||
GLP J-Reit | 21 | 23,931 | ||||
Goodman Group | 7,038 | 74,382 | ||||
HCP, Inc. | 2,463 | 78,767 | ||||
Hudson Pacific Properties, Inc. | 844 | 28,080 | ||||
Inmobiliaria Colonial Socimi SA | 1,586 | 17,662 | ||||
Invesco Office J-Reit, Inc. | 202 | 33,800 | ||||
Invitation Homes, Inc. | 2,663 | 71,182 | ||||
Japan Hotel REIT Investment Corp. | 24 | 19,336 | ||||
Link REIT | 6,500 | 79,950 | ||||
Mapletree Commercial Trust | 15,300 | 23,648 | ||||
Northview Apartment Real Estate Investment Trust | 887 | 18,220 | ||||
Orix JREIT, Inc. | 43 | 78,395 |
11
Shares/ Principal Amount | Value | |||||
Prologis, Inc. | 1,626 | $ | 130,243 | |||
Regency Centers Corp. | 450 | 30,033 | ||||
Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. | 1,502 | 60,636 | ||||
Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. | 415 | 33,652 | ||||
Safestore Holdings plc | 3,731 | 29,091 | ||||
SBA Communications Corp.(1) | 182 | 40,921 | ||||
Segro plc | 8,695 | 80,650 | ||||
Spirit Realty Capital, Inc. | 550 | 23,463 | ||||
STORE Capital Corp. | 1,417 | 47,030 | ||||
Sun Communities, Inc. | 709 | 90,887 | ||||
UDR, Inc. | 1,285 | 57,684 | ||||
UNITE Group plc (The) | 1,667 | 20,649 | ||||
VICI Properties, Inc. | 724 | 15,957 | ||||
Welltower, Inc. | 799 | 65,142 | ||||
2,093,765 | ||||||
Food and Staples Retailing — 0.3% | ||||||
Walmart, Inc. | 314 | 34,694 | ||||
Food Products — 1.3% | ||||||
Conagra Brands, Inc. | 1,268 | 33,627 | ||||
General Mills, Inc. | 757 | 39,757 | ||||
Mondelez International, Inc., Class A | 893 | 48,133 | ||||
Nestle SA | 336 | 34,786 | ||||
156,303 | ||||||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 3.1% | ||||||
Cooper Cos., Inc. (The) | 120 | 40,427 | ||||
Danaher Corp. | 285 | 40,732 | ||||
DENTSPLY SIRONA, Inc. | 709 | 41,377 | ||||
Edwards Lifesciences Corp.(1) | 209 | 38,611 | ||||
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.(1) | 163 | 44,879 | ||||
Koninklijke Philips NV | 877 | 38,093 | ||||
Masimo Corp.(1) | 292 | 43,455 | ||||
Stryker Corp. | 222 | 45,639 | ||||
Teleflex, Inc. | 107 | 35,433 | ||||
368,646 | ||||||
Health Care Providers and Services — 1.0% | ||||||
Anthem, Inc. | 148 | 41,767 | ||||
HCA Healthcare, Inc. | 253 | 34,198 | ||||
UnitedHealth Group, Inc. | 150 | 36,602 | ||||
112,567 | ||||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 0.4% | ||||||
Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc. | 420 | 41,051 | ||||
Household Products — 0.3% | ||||||
Procter & Gamble Co. (The) | 314 | 34,430 | ||||
Industrial Conglomerates — 0.4% | ||||||
Honeywell International, Inc. | 244 | 42,600 | ||||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 0.7% | ||||||
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. ADR(1) | 194 | 32,873 |
12
Shares/ Principal Amount | Value | |||||
Amazon.com, Inc.(1) | 24 | $ | 45,447 | |||
78,320 | ||||||
IT Services — 4.4% | ||||||
Accenture plc, Class A | 205 | 37,878 | ||||
Akamai Technologies, Inc.(1) | 524 | 41,993 | ||||
Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp. | 578 | 38,269 | ||||
EPAM Systems, Inc.(1) | 208 | 36,005 | ||||
Euronet Worldwide, Inc.(1) | 265 | 44,584 | ||||
FleetCor Technologies, Inc.(1) | 167 | 46,902 | ||||
GDS Holdings Ltd. ADR(1) | 1,000 | 37,570 | ||||
Global Payments, Inc. | 237 | 37,951 | ||||
InterXion Holding NV(1) | 813 | 61,861 | ||||
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 145 | 38,357 | ||||
NEXTDC Ltd.(1) | 3,485 | 15,892 | ||||
PayPal Holdings, Inc.(1) | 309 | 35,368 | ||||
Visa, Inc., Class A | 272 | 47,206 | ||||
519,836 | ||||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 0.3% | ||||||
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. | 138 | 40,528 | ||||
Machinery — 1.0% | ||||||
Ingersoll-Rand plc | 312 | 39,521 | ||||
ITT, Inc. | 593 | 38,830 | ||||
Woodward, Inc. | 352 | 39,832 | ||||
118,183 | ||||||
Media — 0.4% | ||||||
Comcast Corp., Class A | 1,029 | 43,506 | ||||
Metals and Mining — 0.6% | ||||||
Anglo American plc | 462 | 13,215 | ||||
BHP Group Ltd. | 817 | 23,667 | ||||
Lundin Mining Corp. | 2,319 | 12,768 | ||||
Rio Tinto plc ADR | 371 | 23,128 | ||||
72,778 | ||||||
Multi-Utilities — 0.6% | ||||||
Ameren Corp. | 438 | 32,898 | ||||
Brookfield Infrastructure Partners LP | 869 | 37,315 | ||||
70,213 | ||||||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 3.5% | ||||||
BP plc | 2,374 | 16,590 | ||||
Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. | 531 | 14,318 | ||||
Cheniere Energy Partners LP | 399 | 16,830 | ||||
Cheniere Energy, Inc.(1) | 257 | 17,592 | ||||
Chevron Corp. | 122 | 15,182 | ||||
Enbridge, Inc. | 419 | 15,134 | ||||
Energy Transfer LP | 1,205 | 16,966 | ||||
Enterprise Products Partners LP | 913 | 26,358 | ||||
EOG Resources, Inc. | 191 | 17,794 | ||||
EQM Midstream Partners LP | 353 | 15,772 |
13
Shares/ Principal Amount | Value | |||||
Exxon Mobil Corp. | 158 | $ | 12,108 | |||
Kinder Morgan, Inc. | 1,218 | 25,432 | ||||
Magellan Midstream Partners LP | 422 | 27,008 | ||||
MPLX LP | 475 | 15,290 | ||||
ONEOK, Inc. | 348 | 23,946 | ||||
Phillips 66 Partners LP | 369 | 18,210 | ||||
Pioneer Natural Resources Co. | 95 | 14,617 | ||||
Plains All American Pipeline LP | 720 | 17,532 | ||||
Plains GP Holdings LP, Class A(1) | 616 | 15,381 | ||||
Royal Dutch Shell plc, A Shares | 531 | 17,291 | ||||
TC Energy Corp. | 398 | 19,731 | ||||
TOTAL SA | 307 | 17,177 | ||||
Williams Cos., Inc. (The) | 434 | 12,169 | ||||
408,428 | ||||||
Pharmaceuticals — 1.2% | ||||||
Ipsen SA | 290 | 39,573 | ||||
Merck & Co., Inc. | 476 | 39,912 | ||||
Novartis AG | 304 | 27,806 | ||||
Zoetis, Inc. | 343 | 38,927 | ||||
146,218 | ||||||
Professional Services — 0.3% | ||||||
TransUnion | 538 | 39,548 | ||||
Real Estate Management and Development — 4.9% | ||||||
Ayala Land, Inc. | 35,110 | 34,826 | ||||
CapitaLand Ltd. | 12,900 | 33,667 | ||||
China Overseas Land & Investment Ltd. | 4,000 | 14,761 | ||||
CIFI Holdings Group Co. Ltd. | 20,000 | 13,201 | ||||
Corp. Inmobiliaria Vesta SAB de CV | 13,363 | 19,675 | ||||
Fabege AB | 2,065 | 31,078 | ||||
Hang Lung Properties Ltd. | 8,000 | 19,048 | ||||
LEG Immobilien AG | 339 | 38,234 | ||||
Longfor Group Holdings Ltd. | 9,500 | 35,854 | ||||
Mitsubishi Estate Co. Ltd. | 3,300 | 61,561 | ||||
Mitsui Fudosan Co. Ltd. | 1,500 | 36,422 | ||||
New World Development Co. Ltd. | 17,000 | 26,491 | ||||
Pakuwon Jati Tbk PT | 118,300 | 6,115 | ||||
Shimao Property Holdings Ltd. | 6,000 | 18,207 | ||||
Shurgard Self Storage SA | 383 | 13,852 | ||||
Sun Hung Kai Properties Ltd. | 3,500 | 59,438 | ||||
Times China Holdings Ltd. | 10,000 | 20,067 | ||||
VGP NV | 170 | 14,074 | ||||
Vonovia SE | 1,591 | 75,983 | ||||
572,554 | ||||||
Road and Rail — 1.3% | ||||||
Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. | 142 | 33,444 | ||||
CSX Corp. | 533 | 41,238 | ||||
Norfolk Southern Corp. | 193 | 38,471 |
14
Shares/ Principal Amount | Value | |||||
Union Pacific Corp. | 252 | $ | 42,616 | |||
155,769 | ||||||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 0.6% | ||||||
NVIDIA Corp. | 232 | 38,102 | ||||
Xilinx, Inc. | 321 | 37,852 | ||||
75,954 | ||||||
Software — 2.7% | ||||||
Adobe, Inc.(1) | 146 | 43,019 | ||||
Aspen Technology, Inc.(1) | 308 | 38,278 | ||||
Cadence Design Systems, Inc.(1) | 615 | 43,548 | ||||
Fortinet, Inc.(1) | 489 | 37,570 | ||||
Intuit, Inc. | 147 | 38,416 | ||||
Microsoft Corp. | 304 | 40,724 | ||||
ServiceNow, Inc.(1) | 141 | 38,714 | ||||
Synopsys, Inc.(1) | 317 | 40,795 | ||||
321,064 | ||||||
Specialty Retail — 0.6% | ||||||
Lowe's Cos., Inc. | 344 | 34,713 | ||||
TJX Cos., Inc. (The) | 672 | 35,535 | ||||
70,248 | ||||||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 0.3% | ||||||
NIKE, Inc., Class B | 385 | 32,321 | ||||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $5,935,431) | 6,811,572 | |||||
COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS — 6.8% | ||||||
ABN Amro Mortgage Corp., Series 2003-6, Class 1A4, 5.50%, 5/25/33 | $ | 2,636 | 2,823 | |||
Bear Stearns Adjustable Rate Mortgage Trust, Series 2004-12, Class 2A1, VRN, 4.31%, 2/25/35 | 25,337 | 25,883 | ||||
Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust, Inc., Series 2004-UST1, Class A4, VRN, 4.43%, 8/25/34 | 13,403 | 13,187 | ||||
Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust, Inc., Series 2005-4, Class A, VRN, 4.48%, 8/25/35 | 19,325 | 19,963 | ||||
Countrywide Home Loan Mortgage Pass-Through Trust, Series 2004-4, Class A19, 5.25%, 5/25/34 | 23,684 | 24,524 | ||||
Countrywide Home Loan Mortgage Pass-Through Trust, Series 2004-5, Class 2A4, 5.50%, 5/25/34 | 4,131 | 4,242 | ||||
First Horizon Mortgage Pass-Through Trust, Series 2005-AR3, Class 4A1, VRN, 4.68%, 8/25/35 | 14,922 | 15,474 | ||||
GSR Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2005-AR6, Class 2A1, VRN, 4.50%, 9/25/35 | 20,655 | 21,290 | ||||
JPMorgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2005-A6, Class 7A1, VRN, 4.32%, 8/25/35 | 23,327 | 22,835 | ||||
JPMorgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2006-A3, Class 7A1, VRN, 4.67%, 4/25/35 | 5,098 | 5,231 | ||||
JPMorgan Mortgage Trust, Series 2016-1, Class A7 SEQ, VRN, 3.50%, 5/25/46(2) | 100,000 | 102,744 | ||||
Thornburg Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2004-3, Class A, VRN, 3.14%, (1-month LIBOR plus 0.74%), 9/25/44 | 8,148 | 8,161 | ||||
Thornburg Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2006-4, Class A2B, VRN, 4.84%, 7/25/36 | 63,249 | 61,921 |
15
Shares/ Principal Amount | Value | |||||
WaMu Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2003-S11, Class 3A5, 5.95%, 11/25/33 | $ | 4,713 | $ | 4,833 | ||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2005-17, Class 2A1, 5.50%, 1/25/36 | 56,355 | 58,009 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2005-18, Class 1A1, 5.50%, 1/25/36 | 44,412 | 44,732 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2005-AR16, Class 3A2, VRN, 4.99%, 3/25/35 | 16,729 | 17,283 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2005-AR7, Class 1A1, VRN, 5.09%, 5/25/35 | 8,131 | 8,465 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2006-10, Class A4 SEQ, 6.00%, 8/25/36 | 20,157 | 20,335 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2006-4, Class 2A1, 6.00%, 4/25/36 | 21,992 | 22,127 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2006-9, Class 1A9 SEQ, 6.00%, 8/25/36 | 8,624 | 8,665 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2006-AR1, Class 2A5 SEQ, VRN, 5.16%, 3/25/36 | 26,929 | 26,839 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2006-AR10, Class 5A6 SEQ, VRN, 4.99%, 7/25/36 | 111,995 | 114,025 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2006-AR12, Class 1A1, VRN, 4.76%, 9/25/36 | 51,687 | 52,774 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2006-AR15, Class A1, VRN, 4.75%, 10/25/36 | 11,340 | 11,316 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2007-11, Class A3 SEQ, 6.00%, 8/25/37 | 11,469 | 11,612 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2007-13, Class A1, 6.00%, 9/25/37 | 13,170 | 13,354 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2007-14, Class 2A2, 5.50%, 10/25/22 | 1,777 | 1,814 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2007-16, Class 1A1, 6.00%, 12/28/37 | 3,124 | 3,136 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2007-8, Class 1A5 SEQ, 6.00%, 7/25/37 | 46,308 | 46,899 | ||||
Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust, Series 2007-AR10, Class 1A1, VRN, 4.91%, 1/25/38 | 2,918 | 2,833 | ||||
WinWater Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 2014-1, Class A4 SEQ, VRN, 3.50%, 6/20/44(2) | 5,639 | 5,761 | ||||
TOTAL COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS (Cost $780,354) | 803,090 | |||||
CORPORATE BONDS — 6.1% | ||||||
Aerospace and Defense — 0.1% | ||||||
United Technologies Corp., 3.75%, 11/1/46 | 10,000 | 10,184 | ||||
Banks — 0.4% | ||||||
Bank of America Corp., MTN, 3.25%, 10/21/27 | 15,000 | 15,375 | ||||
CIT Group, Inc., 5.00%, 8/15/22 | 20,000 | 21,200 | ||||
Citigroup, Inc., 4.45%, 9/29/27 | 10,000 | 10,785 | ||||
47,360 | ||||||
Capital Markets — 0.2% | ||||||
Morgan Stanley, MTN, 5.625%, 9/23/19 | 20,000 | 20,140 | ||||
Containers and Packaging — 0.4% | ||||||
Berry Global, Inc., 5.50%, 5/15/22 | 25,000 | 25,375 |
16
Shares/ Principal Amount | Value | |||||
Reynolds Group Issuer, Inc. / Reynolds Group Issuer LLC / Reynolds Group Issuer Lu, 5.125%, 7/15/23(2) | $ | 25,000 | $ | 25,531 | ||
50,906 | ||||||
Electric Utilities — 0.1% | ||||||
Duke Energy Progress LLC, 3.70%, 10/15/46 | 10,000 | 10,162 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 1.1% | ||||||
Crown Castle International Corp., 5.25%, 1/15/23 | 75,000 | 81,689 | ||||
GLP Capital LP / GLP Financing II, Inc., 4.875%, 11/1/20 | 50,000 | 50,993 | ||||
132,682 | ||||||
Gas Utilities — 0.2% | ||||||
Andeavor Logistics LP / Tesoro Logistics Finance Corp., 6.25%, 10/15/22 | 19,000 | 19,523 | ||||
Health Care Providers and Services — 1.2% | ||||||
DaVita, Inc., 5.75%, 8/15/22 | 25,000 | 25,313 | ||||
Fresenius Medical Care US Finance II, Inc., 5.625%, 7/31/19(2) | 70,000 | 70,132 | ||||
HCA, Inc., 4.25%, 10/15/19 | 50,000 | 50,204 | ||||
145,649 | ||||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 0.4% | ||||||
1011778 BC ULC / New Red Finance, Inc., 5.00%, 10/15/25(2) | 20,000 | 20,206 | ||||
Boyd Gaming Corp., 6.875%, 5/15/23 | 25,000 | 25,906 | ||||
46,112 | ||||||
Media — 0.4% | ||||||
CCO Holdings LLC / CCO Holdings Capital Corp., 5.25%, 9/30/22 | 20,000 | 20,339 | ||||
CCO Holdings LLC / CCO Holdings Capital Corp., 5.125%, 5/1/27(2) | 10,000 | 10,379 | ||||
Charter Communications Operating LLC / Charter Communications Operating Capital, 6.48%, 10/23/45 | 10,000 | 11,789 | ||||
Time Warner Cable LLC, 4.50%, 9/15/42 | 10,000 | 9,416 | ||||
51,923 | ||||||
Metals and Mining — 0.2% | ||||||
Freeport-McMoRan, Inc., 3.55%, 3/1/22 | 25,000 | 25,094 | ||||
Multi-Utilities — 0.3% | ||||||
Exelon Generation Co. LLC, 5.60%, 6/15/42 | 5,000 | 5,574 | ||||
IPALCO Enterprises, Inc., 3.45%, 7/15/20 | 30,000 | 30,194 | ||||
35,768 | ||||||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 1.1% | ||||||
Antero Resources Corp., 5.125%, 12/1/22 | 25,000 | 24,094 | ||||
Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc., 6.25%, 4/15/23 | 25,000 | 24,219 | ||||
MPLX LP, 4.875%, 6/1/25 | 10,000 | 10,871 | ||||
Newfield Exploration Co., 5.75%, 1/30/22 | 20,000 | 21,425 | ||||
Oasis Petroleum, Inc., 6.875%, 3/15/22 | 25,000 | 24,922 | ||||
Suburban Propane Partners LP / Suburban Energy Finance Corp., 5.50%, 6/1/24 | 25,000 | 25,250 | ||||
130,781 | ||||||
TOTAL CORPORATE BONDS (Cost $718,726) | 726,284 |
17
Shares/ Principal Amount | Value | |||||
U.S. TREASURY SECURITIES — 4.6% | ||||||
U.S. Treasury Inflation Indexed Notes, 2.375%, 1/15/25(3) | $ | 81,343 | $ | 90,929 | ||
U.S. Treasury Notes, 2.50%, 2/28/21 | 450,000 | 455,018 | ||||
TOTAL U.S. TREASURY SECURITIES (Cost $540,426) | 545,947 | |||||
COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES — 4.1% | ||||||
Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2016-CD1, Class AM, 2.93%, 8/10/49 | 25,000 | 25,052 | ||||
Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 2016-CD2, Class A4 SEQ, VRN, 3.53%, 11/10/49 | 50,000 | 53,128 | ||||
Core Industrial Trust, Series 2015-CALW, Class B, 3.25%, 2/10/34(2) | 50,000 | 51,134 | ||||
Core Industrial Trust, Series 2015-TEXW, Class B, 3.33%, 2/10/34(2) | 50,000 | 51,384 | ||||
GS Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2016-GS2, Class B, VRN, 3.76%, 5/10/49 | 75,000 | 78,049 | ||||
Hudson Yards Mortgage Trust, Series 2016-10HY, Class B, VRN, 3.08%, 8/10/38(2) | 50,000 | 50,695 | ||||
JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2016-JP2, Class B, 3.46%, 8/15/49 | 50,000 | 50,859 | ||||
JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 2016-JP3, Class AS, 3.14%, 8/15/49 | 50,000 | 50,616 | ||||
Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust, Series 2016-UB11, Class A4 SEQ, 2.78%, 8/15/49 | 75,000 | 75,824 | ||||
TOTAL COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (Cost $487,905) | 486,741 | |||||
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES — 3.4% | ||||||
Goodgreen, Series 2018-1A, Class A, VRN, 3.93%, 10/15/53(2) | 81,868 | 85,419 | ||||
Hilton Grand Vacations Trust, Series 2014-AA, Class A SEQ, 1.77%, 11/25/26(2) | 12,627 | 12,566 | ||||
Invitation Homes Trust, Series 2018-SFR2, Class C, VRN, 3.67%, (1-month LIBOR plus 1.28%), 6/17/37(2) | 100,000 | 100,170 | ||||
MVW Owner Trust, Series 2014-1A, Class B, 2.70%, 9/22/31(2) | 45,684 | 45,246 | ||||
MVW Owner Trust, Series 2016-1A, Class A SEQ, 2.25%, 12/20/33(2) | 8,925 | 8,855 | ||||
MVW Owner Trust, Series 2017-1A, Class B, 2.75%, 12/20/34(2) | 27,774 | 27,696 | ||||
Progress Residential Trust, Series 2018-SFR3, Class C, 4.18%, 10/17/35(2) | 50,000 | 51,787 | ||||
Sierra Timeshare Receivables Funding LLC, Series 2015-1A, Class A SEQ, 2.40%, 3/22/32(2) | 11,541 | 11,518 | ||||
Sierra Timeshare Receivables Funding LLC, Series 2015-2A, Class A SEQ, 2.43%, 6/20/32(2) | 13,220 | 13,181 | ||||
Sierra Timeshare Receivables Funding LLC, Series 2016-2A, Class A SEQ, 2.33%, 7/20/33(2) | 10,203 | 10,170 | ||||
Sierra Timeshare Receivables Funding LLC, Series 2018-3A, Class C, 4.17%, 9/20/35(2) | 33,989 | 35,074 | ||||
TOTAL ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (Cost $395,971) | 401,682 | |||||
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS — 3.2% | ||||||
Invesco DB Base Metals Fund | 4,804 | 74,462 | ||||
Invesco DB Energy Fund | 12,070 | 171,032 | ||||
Vanguard Real Estate ETF | 1,460 | 127,604 | ||||
TOTAL EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS (Cost $346,522) | 373,098 |
18
Shares/ Principal Amount | Value | |||||
COLLATERALIZED LOAN OBLIGATIONS — 1.7% | ||||||
Bean Creek CLO Ltd., Series 2015-1A, Class BR, VRN, 4.04%, (3-month LIBOR plus 1.45%), 4/20/31(2) (Cost $200,000) | $ | 200,000 | $ | 196,199 | ||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 13.0% | ||||||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class (Cost $1,531,288) | 1,531,288 | 1,531,288 | ||||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES — 100.6% (Cost $10,936,623) | 11,875,901 | |||||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — (0.6)% | (70,744 | ) | ||||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 11,805,157 |
FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS
Currency Purchased | Currency Sold | Counterparty | Settlement Date | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | |||||
AUD | 470,566 | USD | 326,112 | Bank of America N.A. | 9/18/19 | $ | 5,020 | ||
AUD | 311,168 | USD | 218,020 | Bank of America N.A. | 9/18/19 | 946 | |||
AUD | 4,219 | USD | 2,964 | Morgan Stanley | 9/30/19 | 6 | |||
USD | 129,518 | AUD | 186,593 | Morgan Stanley | 9/30/19 | (1,825 | ) | ||
USD | 22,542 | AUD | 32,476 | Morgan Stanley | 9/30/19 | (318 | ) | ||
USD | 3,227 | AUD | 4,612 | Morgan Stanley | 9/30/19 | (19 | ) | ||
USD | 540 | AUD | 769 | Morgan Stanley | 9/30/19 | (1 | ) | ||
BRL | 1,308,794 | USD | 325,271 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | 13,062 | |||
USD | 14,015 | BRL | 54,732 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | (134 | ) | ||
CAD | 579,943 | USD | 431,059 | Morgan Stanley | 9/18/19 | 12,426 | |||
CAD | 61,426 | USD | 46,773 | Morgan Stanley | 9/30/19 | 208 | |||
CAD | 1,059 | USD | 809 | Morgan Stanley | 9/30/19 | 1 | |||
CAD | 3,040 | USD | 2,322 | Morgan Stanley | 9/30/19 | 3 | |||
USD | 221,999 | CAD | 292,370 | Morgan Stanley | 9/18/19 | (1,578 | ) | ||
USD | 79,468 | CAD | 104,692 | Morgan Stanley | 9/30/19 | (604 | ) | ||
USD | 66,632 | CAD | 87,782 | Morgan Stanley | 9/30/19 | (507 | ) | ||
USD | 59,462 | CAD | 78,336 | Morgan Stanley | 9/30/19 | (452 | ) | ||
CHF | 220,750 | USD | 221,144 | UBS AG | 9/18/19 | 6,571 | |||
USD | 61,426 | CHF | 59,766 | UBS AG | 9/30/19 | (290 | ) | ||
USD | 15,256 | CHF | 14,844 | UBS AG | 9/30/19 | (72 | ) | ||
USD | 381 | CHF | 369 | UBS AG | 9/30/19 | — | |||
USD | 218,118 | CLP | 148,287,503 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/23/19 | (812 | ) | ||
COP | 717,357,109 | USD | 212,507 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | 9,688 | |||
USD | 222,125 | COP | 717,357,109 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | (70 | ) | ||
CZK | 4,922,404 | USD | 219,789 | UBS AG | 9/18/19 | 589 | |||
EUR | 97,711 | USD | 109,983 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 9/18/19 | 1,804 | |||
EUR | 194,753 | USD | 219,911 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 9/18/19 | 2,896 | |||
EUR | 3,827 | USD | 4,380 | Credit Suisse AG | 9/30/19 | 2 | |||
EUR | 6,841 | USD | 7,840 | Credit Suisse AG | 9/30/19 | (6 | ) | ||
EUR | 9,636 | USD | 11,029 | Credit Suisse AG | 9/30/19 | 5 | |||
USD | 225,160 | EUR | 196,733 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 9/18/19 | 87 |
19
Currency Purchased | Currency Sold | Counterparty | Settlement Date | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | |||||
USD | 33,156 | EUR | 29,150 | Credit Suisse AG | 9/30/19 | $ | (223 | ) | |
USD | 96,784 | EUR | 85,088 | Credit Suisse AG | 9/30/19 | (650 | ) | ||
USD | 205,580 | EUR | 180,737 | Credit Suisse AG | 9/30/19 | (1,380 | ) | ||
USD | 37,294 | EUR | 32,483 | Credit Suisse AG | 9/30/19 | 99 | |||
USD | 38,009 | EUR | 33,171 | Credit Suisse AG | 9/30/19 | 26 | |||
GBP | 2,183 | USD | 2,784 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 9/30/19 | — | |||
USD | 49,780 | GBP | 39,018 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 9/30/19 | 33 | |||
USD | 128,108 | GBP | 100,414 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 9/30/19 | 85 | |||
USD | 1,383 | GBP | 1,087 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 9/30/19 | (3 | ) | ||
USD | 258,421 | HKD | 2,018,861 | Bank of America N.A. | 9/30/19 | (121 | ) | ||
USD | 20,164 | HKD | 157,480 | Bank of America N.A. | 9/30/19 | (3 | ) | ||
HUF | 4,793,014 | USD | 16,961 | UBS AG | 9/18/19 | (10 | ) | ||
USD | 443,781 | HUF | 128,543,715 | UBS AG | 9/18/19 | (10,827 | ) | ||
USD | 223,145 | HUF | 63,114,006 | UBS AG | 9/18/19 | (64 | ) | ||
USD | 434,424 | ILS | 1,564,534 | UBS AG | 9/18/19 | (6,050 | ) | ||
JPY | 1,011,971 | USD | 9,519 | Bank of America N.A. | 9/30/19 | (71 | ) | ||
USD | 219,370 | JPY | 23,859,603 | Bank of America N.A. | 9/18/19 | (3,187 | ) | ||
USD | 285,297 | JPY | 30,393,514 | Bank of America N.A. | 9/30/19 | 1,546 | |||
KZT | 84,487,793 | USD | 217,864 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | 1,107 | |||
KZT | 39,341,012 | USD | 102,078 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | (116 | ) | ||
MXN | 2,083,309 | USD | 107,174 | Morgan Stanley | 9/18/19 | (26 | ) | ||
MXN | 4,174,673 | USD | 215,056 | Morgan Stanley | 9/18/19 | (345 | ) | ||
USD | 103,727 | MXN | 2,083,309 | Morgan Stanley | 9/18/19 | (3,421 | ) | ||
USD | 19,360 | MXN | 373,438 | JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. | 9/30/19 | 191 | |||
NOK | 7,581,011 | USD | 868,874 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | 21,731 | |||
NOK | 25,441 | USD | 2,997 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | (9 | ) | ||
USD | 21,327 | NOK | 181,170 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | 44 | |||
NZD | 331,120 | USD | 219,586 | Bank of America N.A. | 9/18/19 | 3,185 | |||
USD | 324,000 | NZD | 496,749 | Bank of America N.A. | 9/18/19 | (10,203 | ) | ||
USD | 321,817 | PEN | 1,087,646 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | (7,423 | ) | ||
USD | 235,913 | PHP | 12,451,495 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | (6,187 | ) | ||
PLN | 74,829 | USD | 19,808 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | 269 | |||
PLN | 35,225 | USD | 9,445 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | 6 | |||
PLN | 812,434 | USD | 218,267 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | (289 | ) | ||
USD | 1,087,115 | PLN | 4,177,350 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | (33,679 | ) | ||
SEK | 5,221,307 | USD | 551,670 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | 13,699 | |||
SEK | 979,986 | USD | 103,913 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | 2,201 | |||
SEK | 7,712 | USD | 839 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/30/19 | (3 | ) | ||
SEK | 15,824 | USD | 1,715 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/30/19 | (1 | ) | ||
USD | 15,448 | SEK | 142,541 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/18/19 | 14 | |||
USD | 32,658 | SEK | 305,165 | Goldman Sachs & Co. | 9/30/19 | (412 | ) | ||
USD | 69,237 | SGD | 93,734 | Bank of America N.A. | 9/30/19 | (134 | ) | ||
ZAR | 1,600,686 | USD | 107,950 | UBS AG | 9/18/19 | 4,601 | |||
USD | 107,375 | ZAR | 1,600,686 | UBS AG | 9/18/19 | (5,175 | ) | ||
$ | 5,451 |
20
FUTURES CONTRACTS PURCHASED | ||||||||||||
Reference Entity | Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount | Underlying Contract Value | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | |||||||
U.S. Treasury 10-Year Notes | 1 | September 2019 | $ | 100,000 | $ | 127,969 | $ | 2,013 | ||||
U.S. Treasury 10-Year Ultra Notes | 2 | September 2019 | $ | 200,000 | 276,250 | 5,482 | ||||||
$ | 404,219 | $ | 7,495 |
CENTRALLY CLEARED TOTAL RETURN SWAP AGREEMENTS | |||||||||||||||
Floating Rate Index | Pay/Receive Floating Rate Index | Fixed Rate | Termination Date | Notional Amount | Premiums Paid (Received) | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | Value | ||||||||
CPURNSA | Receive | 2.24% | 8/19/19 | $ | 500,000 | $ | 503 | $ | (20,338 | ) | $ | (19,835 | ) |
TOTAL RETURN SWAP AGREEMENTS | ||||||||||
Counterparty | Floating Rate Index | Pay/Receive Floating Rate Index | Fixed Rate | Termination Date | Notional Amount | Value* | ||||
Bank of America N.A. | CPURNSA | Receive | 1.41% | 8/27/20 | $ | 700,000 | $ | 12,252 |
* Amount represents value and unrealized appreciation (depreciation).
21
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS | ||
ADR | - | American Depositary Receipt |
AUD | - | Australian Dollar |
BRL | - | Brazilian Real |
CAD | - | Canadian Dollar |
CHF | - | Swiss Franc |
CLP | - | Chilean Peso |
COP | - | Colombian Peso |
CPURNSA | - | U.S. Consumer Price Index Urban Consumers Not Seasonally Adjusted Index |
CZK | - | Czech Koruna |
EUR | - | Euro |
GBP | - | British Pound |
HKD | - | Hong Kong Dollar |
HUF | - | Hungarian Forint |
ILS | - | Israeli Shekel |
JPY | - | Japanese Yen |
KZT | - | Kazakhstani Tenge |
LIBOR | - | London Interbank Offered Rate |
MTN | - | Medium Term Note |
MXN | - | Mexican Peso |
NOK | - | Norwegian Krone |
NZD | - | New Zealand Dollar |
PEN | - | Peruvian Sol |
PHP | - | Philippine Peso |
PLN | - | Polish Zloty |
SEK | - | Swedish Krona |
SEQ | - | Sequential Payer |
SGD | - | Singapore Dollar |
USD | - | United States Dollar |
VRN | - | Variable Rate Note. The rate adjusts periodically based upon the terms set forth in the security’s offering documents. The rate shown is effective at the period end and the reference rate and spread, if any, is indicated. |
ZAR | - | South African Rand |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
(2) | Security was purchased pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933 and may be sold in transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional investors. The aggregate value of these securities at the period end was $985,847, which represented 8.4% of total net assets. |
(3) | Security, or a portion thereof, has been pledged at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements on forward foreign currency exchange contracts, futures contracts and/or swap agreements. At the period end, the aggregate value of securities pledged was $24,461. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
22
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $10,936,623) | $ | 11,875,901 | |
Foreign currency holdings, at value (cost of $624) | 624 | ||
Receivable for investments sold | 20,574 | ||
Receivable for capital shares sold | 55 | ||
Receivable for variation margin on futures contracts | 94 | ||
Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | 102,151 | ||
Swap agreements, at value | 12,252 | ||
Interest and dividends receivable | 40,304 | ||
Other assets | 182 | ||
12,052,137 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 367 | ||
Payable for investments purchased | 127,583 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 12,599 | ||
Payable for variation margin on swap agreements | 16 | ||
Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | 96,700 | ||
Accrued management fees | 8,366 | ||
Distribution and service fees payable | 1,349 | ||
246,980 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 11,805,157 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 16,435,969 | |
Distributable earnings | (4,630,812 | ) | |
$ | 11,805,157 |
Net Assets | Shares Outstanding | Net Asset Value Per Share | ||||
Investor Class, $0.01 Par Value | $7,905,782 | 744,059 | $10.63 | |||
I Class, $0.01 Par Value | $758,173 | 70,947 | $10.69 | |||
A Class, $0.01 Par Value | $1,787,144 | 169,735 | $10.53* | |||
C Class, $0.01 Par Value | $1,197,337 | 118,644 | $10.09 | |||
R Class, $0.01 Par Value | $20,305 | 1,954 | $10.39 | |||
R5 Class, $0.01 Par Value | $136,416 | 12,771 | $10.68 |
*Maximum offering price $11.17 (net asset value divided by 0.9425).
See Notes to Financial Statements.
23
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Interest | $ | 205,619 | |
Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $5,452) | 150,493 | ||
356,112 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Management fees | 119,314 | ||
Distribution and service fees: | |||
A Class | 4,571 | ||
C Class | 12,201 | ||
R Class | 87 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 974 | ||
Other expenses | 896 | ||
138,043 | |||
Fees waived(1) | (2,615 | ) | |
135,428 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 220,684 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | (35,441 | ) | |
Forward foreign currency exchange contract transactions | (21,905 | ) | |
Futures contract transactions | 3,855 | ||
Written options contract transactions | 21,602 | ||
Swap agreement transactions | (38,930 | ) | |
Foreign currency translation transactions | (924 | ) | |
(71,743 | ) | ||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments | 360,812 | ||
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts | (6,323 | ) | |
Futures contracts | 9,165 | ||
Swap agreements | 23,696 | ||
Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | 112 | ||
387,462 | |||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 315,719 | ||
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | 536,403 |
(1) | Amount consists of $1,558, $490, $325, $219, $2 and $21 for Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class, respectively. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
24
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 220,684 | $ | 239,953 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | (71,743 | ) | 1,069,115 | |||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 387,462 | (123,938 | ) | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 536,403 | 1,185,130 | ||||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings: | ||||||
Investor Class | (217,230 | ) | (170,131 | ) | ||
I Class | (81,827 | ) | (70,277 | ) | ||
A Class | (44,517 | ) | (31,819 | ) | ||
C Class | (23,878 | ) | (12,518 | ) | ||
R Class | (357 | ) | (1,346 | ) | ||
R5 Class | (3,410 | ) | (653 | ) | ||
Decrease in net assets from distributions | (371,219 | ) | (286,744 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions (Note 5) | (3,552,653 | ) | (4,301,001 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (3,387,469 | ) | (3,402,615 | ) | ||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 15,192,626 | 18,595,241 | ||||
End of period | $ | 11,805,157 | $ | 15,192,626 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
25
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. Multi-Asset Real Return Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek total real return.
The fund offers the Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class. The A Class may incur an initial sales charge. The A Class and C Class may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Fixed income securities are valued at the evaluated mean as provided by independent pricing services or at the mean of the most recent bid and asked prices as provided by investment dealers. Corporate bonds, U.S. Treasury and Government Agency securities, convertible bonds, municipal securities, and sovereign governments and agencies are valued using market models that consider trade data, quotations from dealers and active market makers, relevant yield curve and spread data, creditworthiness, trade data or market information on comparable securities, and other relevant security specific information. Mortgage-related and asset-backed securities are valued based on models that consider trade data, prepayment and default projections, benchmark yield and spread data and estimated cash flows of each tranche of the issuer. Collateralized loan obligations are valued based on discounted cash flow models that consider trade and economic data, prepayment assumptions and default projections. Fixed income securities initially expressed in local currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the mean of the appropriate currency exchange rate at the close of the NYSE as provided by an independent pricing service.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price. Equity securities initially expressed in local currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the mean of the appropriate currency exchange rate at the close of the NYSE as provided by an independent pricing service.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Exchange-traded futures contracts are valued at the settlement price as provided by the appropriate exchange. Exchange-traded options contracts are valued at a mean as provided by independent pricing services. Swap agreements are valued at an evaluated mean as provided by independent pricing services or independent brokers. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the mean of the appropriate forward exchange rate at the close of the NYSE as provided by an independent pricing service. Investments initially expressed in local currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the mean of the appropriate currency exchange rate at the close of the NYSE as provided by an independent pricing service.
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If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes paydown gain (loss) and accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Inflation adjustments related to inflation-linked debt securities are reflected as interest income.
Foreign Currency Translations — All assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at prevailing exchange rates at period end. The fund may enter into spot foreign currency exchange contracts to facilitate transactions denominated in a foreign currency. Purchases and sales of investment securities, dividend and interest income, spot foreign currency exchange contracts, and expenses are translated at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Net realized and unrealized foreign currency exchange gains or losses related to investment securities are a component of net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments, respectively.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Segregated Assets — In accordance with the 1940 Act, the fund segregates assets on its books and records to cover certain types of investment securities and other financial instruments. American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) monitors, on a daily basis, the securities segregated to ensure the fund designates a sufficient amount of liquid assets, marked-to-market daily. The fund may also receive assets or be required to pledge assets at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements.
Multiple Class — All shares of the fund represent an equal pro rata interest in the net assets of the class to which such shares belong, and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the fund are allocated to each class of shares based on their relative net assets.
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Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid quarterly. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually.
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS), and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC.
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee) per class. The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except distribution and service fees, brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on each class's daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The difference in the fee among the classes is a result of their separate arrangements for non-Rule 12b-1 shareholder services. It is not the result of any difference in advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the fund’s assets, which do not vary by class. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds. From July 1, 2018 through July 31, 2018, the investment advisor agreed to waive 0.20% of the fund’s management fee. Effective August 1, 2018, the investment advisor terminated the waiver and decreased the Investment Category Fee range by 0.20%.
The Investment Category Fee range, the Complex Fee range and the effective annual management fee before and after waiver for each class for the period ended June 30, 2019 are as follows:
Effective Annual Management Fee | ||||
Investment Category Fee Range | Complex Fee Range | Before Waiver | After Waiver | |
Investor Class | 0.5754% to 0.6929%* | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.90% | 0.88% |
I Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.70% | 0.68% | |
A Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.90% | 0.88% | |
C Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.90% | 0.88% | |
R Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.90% | 0.88% | |
R5 Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.70% | 0.68% |
*Prior to August 1, 2018, the Investment Category Fee range was 0.7754% to 0.8929%.
Distribution and Service Fees — The Board of Directors has adopted a separate Master Distribution and Individual Shareholder Services Plan for each of the A Class, C Class and R Class (collectively the plans), pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act. The plans provide that the A Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.25%. The plans provide that the C Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 1.00%, of which 0.25% is paid for individual shareholder services and 0.75% is paid for distribution services. The plans provide that the R Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.50%. The fees are computed and accrued daily based on each class’s daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The fees are used to pay financial intermediaries for distribution and individual shareholder services. Fees incurred under the plans during the period ended June 30, 2019 are detailed in the Statement of Operations.
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Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $363,920 and $538,680, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $(11,818) in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 totaled $29,881,257, of which $1,621,770 represented U.S. Treasury and Government Agency obligations.
Sales of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 totaled $33,614,915, of which $1,741,330 represented U.S. Treasury and Government Agency obligations.
5. Capital Share Transactions
Transactions in shares of the fund were as follows:
Year ended June 30, 2019 | Year ended June 30, 2018 | |||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||
Investor Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 35,868 | $ | 369,261 | 62,533 | $ | 643,979 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 18,871 | 196,512 | 14,619 | 151,114 | ||||||
Redeemed | (186,972 | ) | (1,931,702 | ) | (552,338 | ) | (5,598,099 | ) | ||
(132,233 | ) | (1,365,929 | ) | (475,186 | ) | (4,803,006 | ) | |||
I Class/Shares Authorized | 25,000,000 | 25,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 213,456 | 2,211,956 | 533,646 | 5,492,235 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 7,669 | 80,421 | 6,593 | 68,443 | ||||||
Redeemed | (420,741 | ) | (4,234,360 | ) | (432,897 | ) | (4,446,801 | ) | ||
(199,616 | ) | (1,941,983 | ) | 107,342 | 1,113,877 | |||||
A Class/Shares Authorized | 30,000,000 | 30,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 5,005 | 50,760 | 16,417 | 169,772 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 4,289 | 44,337 | 3,091 | 31,697 | ||||||
Redeemed | (23,915 | ) | (243,421 | ) | (37,137 | ) | (373,227 | ) | ||
(14,621 | ) | (148,324 | ) | (17,629 | ) | (171,758 | ) | |||
C Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 297 | 3,000 | 8,025 | 77,245 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 2,288 | 22,754 | 1,216 | 11,969 | ||||||
Redeemed | (14,147 | ) | (137,649 | ) | (55,980 | ) | (541,372 | ) | ||
(11,562 | ) | (111,895 | ) | (46,739 | ) | (452,158 | ) | |||
R Class/Shares Authorized | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 700 | 7,033 | 322 | 3,242 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 35 | 357 | 133 | 1,346 | ||||||
Redeemed | (234 | ) | (2,400 | ) | (10,729 | ) | (109,135 | ) | ||
501 | 4,990 | (10,274 | ) | (104,547 | ) | |||||
R5 Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 704 | 7,268 | 11,190 | 115,994 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 326 | 3,410 | 62 | 653 | ||||||
Redeemed | (18 | ) | (190 | ) | (5 | ) | (56 | ) | ||
1,012 | 10,488 | 11,247 | 116,591 | |||||||
Net increase (decrease) | (356,519 | ) | $ | (3,552,653 | ) | (431,239 | ) | $ | (4,301,001 | ) |
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6. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | ||||||||
Aerospace and Defense | $ | 82,517 | $ | 63,099 | — | |||
Chemicals | 114,679 | 16,044 | — | |||||
Electric Utilities | 107,584 | 36,927 | — | |||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) | 1,425,598 | 668,167 | — | |||||
Food Products | 121,517 | 34,786 | — | |||||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies | 330,553 | 38,093 | — | |||||
IT Services | 503,944 | 15,892 | — | |||||
Metals and Mining | 23,128 | 49,650 | — | |||||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels | 308,187 | 100,241 | — | |||||
Pharmaceuticals | 78,839 | 67,379 | — | |||||
Real Estate Management and Development | — | 572,554 | — | |||||
Road and Rail | 122,325 | 33,444 | — | |||||
Other Industries | 1,896,425 | — | — | |||||
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations | — | 803,090 | — | |||||
Corporate Bonds | — | 726,284 | — | |||||
U.S. Treasury Securities | — | 545,947 | — | |||||
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities | — | 486,741 | — | |||||
Asset-Backed Securities | — | 401,682 | — | |||||
Exchange-Traded Funds | 373,098 | — | — | |||||
Collateralized Loan Obligations | — | 196,199 | — | |||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 1,531,288 | — | — | |||||
$ | 7,019,682 | $ | 4,856,219 | — | ||||
Other Financial Instruments | ||||||||
Futures Contracts | $ | 7,495 | — | — | ||||
Swap Agreements | — | $ | 12,252 | — | ||||
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | — | 102,151 | — | |||||
$ | 7,495 | $ | 114,403 | — | ||||
Liabilities | ||||||||
Other Financial Instruments | ||||||||
Swap Agreements | — | $ | 19,835 | — | ||||
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts | — | 96,700 | — | |||||
— | $ | 116,535 | — |
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7. Derivative Instruments
Equity Price Risk — The fund is subject to equity price risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. A fund may enter into futures contracts or option contracts based on an equity index or specific security in order to manage its exposure to changes in market conditions. The risks of entering into equity price risk derivative instruments include the possible lack of liquidity, failure of the counterparty to meet its obligations, and that there may be unfavorable changes in the underlying investments or instruments.
A fund may purchase or write an option contract to protect against declines in market value on the underlying index or security. A purchased option contract provides the fund a right, but not an obligation, to buy (call) or sell (put) an equity-related asset at a specified exercise price within a certain period or on a specific date. A written option contract holds the corresponding obligation to sell (call writing) or buy (put writing) the underlying equity-related asset if the purchaser exercises the option contract. The buyer pays the seller an initial purchase price (premium) for this right. Option contracts purchased by a fund are accounted for in the same manner as marketable portfolio securities. The premium received by a fund for option contracts written is recorded as a liability and valued daily. The proceeds from securities sold through the exercise of option contracts are decreased by the premium paid to purchase the option contracts. A fund may recognize a realized gain or loss when the option contract is closed, exercised or expires. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of purchased options contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments, respectively. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of written options contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on written options contract transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on written options contracts, respectively. The fund's average exposure to these equity price risk derivative instruments held during the period was 49 written options contracts.
A fund may purchase futures contracts to gain exposure to increases in market value or sell futures contracts to protect against a decline in market value. Upon entering into a futures contract, a fund is required to deposit either cash or securities in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract value (initial margin). Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received daily, in cash, by a fund. The variation margin is equal to the daily change in the contract value and is recorded as unrealized gains and losses. A fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when the contract is closed or expires. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of futures contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts, respectively. During the period, the fund participated in these equity price risk derivative instruments for temporary investment purposes.
Foreign Currency Risk — The fund is subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. The value of foreign investments held by a fund may be significantly affected by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. The dollar value of a foreign security generally decreases when the value of the dollar rises against the foreign currency in which the security is denominated and tends to increase when the value of the dollar declines against such foreign currency. A fund may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts to reduce a fund's exposure to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations or to gain exposure to the fluctuations in the value of foreign currencies. The net U.S. dollar value of foreign currency underlying all contractual commitments held by a fund and the resulting unrealized appreciation or depreciation are determined daily. Realized gain or loss is recorded upon the termination of the contract. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of forward foreign currency exchange contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on forward foreign currency exchange contract transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on forward foreign currency exchange contracts, respectively. A fund bears the risk of an unfavorable change in the foreign currency exchange rate underlying the forward contract. Additionally, losses, up to the fair value, may arise if the counterparties do not perform under the contract terms. The fund's average U.S. dollar exposure to foreign currency risk derivative instruments held during the period was $21,368,651.
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Interest Rate Risk — The fund is subject to interest rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. The value of bonds generally declines as interest rates rise. A fund may enter into futures contracts based on a bond index or a specific underlying security. A fund may purchase futures contracts to gain exposure to increases in market value or sell futures contracts to protect against a decline in market value. Upon entering into a futures contract, a fund will segregate cash, cash equivalents or other appropriate liquid securities on its records in amounts sufficient to meet requirements. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received daily, in cash, by a fund. The variation margin is equal to the daily change in the contract value and is recorded as unrealized gains and losses. A fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when the futures contract is closed or expires. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of futures contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts, respectively. One of the risks of entering into futures contracts is the possibility that the change in value of the contract may not correlate with the changes in value of the underlying securities. The fund's average notional exposure to interest rate risk derivative instruments held during the period was $300,000 futures contracts purchased and $337,803 futures contracts sold.
Other Contracts — A fund may enter into total return swap agreements in order to attempt to obtain or preserve a particular return or spread at a lower cost than obtaining a return or spread through purchases and/or sales of instruments in other markets or gain exposure to certain markets in the most economical way possible. A fund will segregate cash, cash equivalents or other appropriate liquid securities on its records in amounts sufficient to meet requirements. Changes in value, including the periodic amounts of interest to be paid or received on swap agreements, are recorded as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on swap agreements. Upon entering into a centrally cleared swap, a fund is required to deposit cash or securities (initial margin) with a financial intermediary in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the notional amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received daily, in cash, by a fund. The variation margin is equal to the daily change in the value and is a component of unrealized gains and losses. Realized gain or loss is recorded upon receipt or payment of a periodic settlement or termination of swap agreements. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of swap agreements are a component of net realized gain (loss) on swap agreement transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on swap agreements, respectively. The risks of entering into swap agreements include the possible lack of liquidity, failure of the counterparty to meet its obligations, and that there may be unfavorable changes in the underlying investments or instruments, including inflationary risk. The fund's average notional amount held during the period was $1,700,000.
Value of Derivative Instruments as of June 30, 2019
Asset Derivatives | Liability Derivatives | |||||||
Type of Risk Exposure | Location on Statement of Assets and Liabilities | Value | Location on Statement of Assets and Liabilities | Value | ||||
Foreign Currency Risk | Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | 102,151 | Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | $ | 96,700 | ||
Interest Rate Risk | Receivable for variation margin on futures contracts* | 94 | Payable for variation margin on futures contracts* | — | ||||
Other Contracts | Receivable for variation margin on swap agreements* | — | Payable for variation margin on swap agreements* | 16 | ||||
Other Contracts | Swap agreements | 12,252 | Swap agreements | — | ||||
$ | 114,497 | $ | 96,716 |
* | Included in the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts or centrally cleared swap agreements, as applicable, as reported in the Schedule of Investments. |
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Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Statement of Operations for the Year Ended June 30, 2019
Net Realized Gain (Loss) | Change in Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | |||||||
Type of Risk Exposure | Location on Statement of Operations | Value | Location on Statement of Operations | Value | ||||
Equity Price Risk | Net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions | $ | (5,650 | ) | Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts | $ | (98 | ) |
Equity Price Risk | Net realized gain (loss) on written options contract transactions | 21,602 | Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on written options contracts | — | ||||
Foreign Currency Risk | Net realized gain (loss) on forward foreign currency exchange contract transactions | (21,905 | ) | Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on forward foreign currency exchange contracts | (6,323 | ) | ||
Interest Rate Risk | Net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions | 9,505 | Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts | 9,263 | ||||
Other Contracts | Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreement transactions | (38,930 | ) | Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on swap agreements | 23,696 | |||
$ | (35,378 | ) | $ | 26,538 |
8. Risk Factors
There are certain risks involved in investing in foreign securities. These risks include those resulting from political events (such as civil unrest, national elections and imposition of exchange controls), social and economic events (such as labor strikes and rising inflation), and natural disasters. Securities of foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile. Investing in emerging markets or a significant portion of assets in one country or region may accentuate these risks.
There are certain risks involved with investing in forward foreign currency exchange contracts. Changes in the value of foreign currencies against the U.S. dollar could result in gains or losses to the fund. The value of a share of the fund is determined in U.S. dollars. As a result, the fund could recognize a gain or loss based solely upon a change in the exchange rate between the foreign currency and the U.S. dollar. Changes in exchange rates may increase losses and lower gains from the fund’s investments. The overall impact on the fund may be significant depending on the currencies represented in the portfolio and how each one appreciates or depreciates in relation to the U.S. dollar. Currency trends are unpredictable and exchange rates in foreign currencies may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates, intervention (or the failure to intervene) by U.S. or foreign governments, central banks or Supranational entities, or by the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the United States or abroad.
The fund’s commodity-related investments may be subject to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities. The value of the fund’s commodity-related investments may be affected by changes in overall market movements, interest rate changes, and volatility in commodity-related indexes. The value of these investments may also be affected by factors affecting a particular commodity, such as weather, disease, embargoes, tariffs, taxes and economic, political and regulatory developments.
The fund may be subject to certain risks similar to those associated with direct investment in real estate including but not limited to: local or regional economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, changes in property values, property tax increases, overbuilding, increased competition, environmental contamination, natural disasters, and interest rate risk.
The fund’s investment process may result in high portfolio turnover, which could mean high transaction costs, affecting both performance and capital gains tax liabilities to investors.
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9. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary Income | $ | 371,219 | $ | 286,744 | ||
Long-term capital gains | — | — |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 11,110,048 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 801,813 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (35,960 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | 765,853 | ||
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) on derivatives and translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | (20,982 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) | $ | 744,871 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $ | 193,952 | |
Accumulated short-term capital losses | $ | (1,117,386 | ) |
Accumulated long-term capital losses | $ | (4,452,249 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the realization to ordinary income for tax purposes of unrealized gains on investments in passive foreign investment companies.
Accumulated capital losses represent net capital loss carryovers that may be used to offset future realized capital gains for federal income tax purposes. The capital loss carryovers may be carried forward for an unlimited period. Future capital loss carryover utilization in any given year may be subject to Internal Revenue Code limitations.
10. Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08, “Receivables - Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities” (ASU 2017-08). ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the impact that adopting ASU 2017-08 will have on the financial statements.
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Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | ||||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Distributions From Net Investment Income | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (before expense waiver) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Net Investment Income (Loss) (before expense waiver) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $10.35 | 0.17 | 0.37 | 0.54 | (0.26) | $10.63 | 5.33% | 0.89% | 0.91% | 1.68% | 1.66% | 241% | $7,906 | ||
2018 | $9.80 | 0.16 | 0.58 | 0.74 | (0.19) | $10.35 | 7.57% | 0.89% | 1.09% | 1.61% | 1.41% | 160% | $9,067 | ||
2017 | $9.43 | 0.16 | 0.21 | 0.37 | — | $9.80 | 3.92% | 0.89% | 1.09% | 1.68% | 1.48% | 173% | $13,250 | ||
2016 | $9.54 | 0.04 | (0.15) | (0.11) | — | $9.43 | (1.15)% | 0.90% | 1.10% | 0.47% | 0.27% | 152% | $14,230 | ||
2015 | $10.50 | 0.02 | (0.89) | (0.87) | (0.09) | $9.54 | (8.35)% | 0.89% | 1.09% | 0.24% | 0.04% | 93% | $24,054 | ||
I Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $10.40 | 0.18 | 0.39 | 0.57 | (0.28) | $10.69 | 5.56% | 0.69% | 0.71% | 1.88% | 1.86% | 241% | $758 | ||
2018 | $9.85 | 0.19 | 0.57 | 0.76 | (0.21) | $10.40 | 7.74% | 0.69% | 0.89% | 1.81% | 1.61% | 160% | $2,813 | ||
2017 | $9.46 | 0.18 | 0.21 | 0.39 | — | $9.85 | 4.12% | 0.69% | 0.89% | 1.88% | 1.68% | 173% | $1,608 | ||
2016 | $9.55 | 0.08 | (0.17) | (0.09) | — | $9.46 | (0.94)% | 0.70% | 0.90% | 0.67% | 0.47% | 152% | $1,384 | ||
2015 | $10.53 | 0.04 | (0.89) | (0.85) | (0.13) | $9.55 | (8.15)% | 0.69% | 0.89% | 0.44% | 0.24% | 93% | $1,102 |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | ||||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Distributions From Net Investment Income | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (before expense waiver) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Net Investment Income (Loss) (before expense waiver) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
A Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $10.26 | 0.15 | 0.36 | 0.51 | (0.24) | $10.53 | 5.07% | 1.14% | 1.16% | 1.43% | 1.41% | 241% | $1,787 | ||
2018 | $9.73 | 0.14 | 0.56 | 0.70 | (0.17) | $10.26 | 7.15% | 1.14% | 1.34% | 1.36% | 1.16% | 160% | $1,892 | ||
2017 | $9.38 | 0.13 | 0.22 | 0.35 | — | $9.73 | 3.73% | 1.14% | 1.34% | 1.43% | 1.23% | 173% | $1,964 | ||
2016 | $9.51 | 0.03 | (0.16) | (0.13) | — | $9.38 | (1.37)% | 1.15% | 1.35% | 0.22% | 0.02% | 152% | $4,587 | ||
2015 | $10.45 | —(3) | (0.89) | (0.89) | (0.05) | $9.51 | (8.59)% | 1.14% | 1.34% | (0.01)% | (0.21)% | 93% | $8,385 | ||
C Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $9.86 | 0.07 | 0.35 | 0.42 | (0.19) | $10.09 | 4.25% | 1.89% | 1.91% | 0.68% | 0.66% | 241% | $1,197 | ||
2018 | $9.35 | 0.06 | 0.54 | 0.60 | (0.09) | $9.86 | 6.42% | 1.89% | 2.09% | 0.61% | 0.41% | 160% | $1,284 | ||
2017 | $9.09 | 0.06 | 0.20 | 0.26 | — | $9.35 | 2.86% | 1.89% | 2.09% | 0.68% | 0.48% | 173% | $1,655 | ||
2016 | $9.28 | (0.05) | (0.14) | (0.19) | — | $9.09 | (2.05)% | 1.90% | 2.10% | (0.53)% | (0.73)% | 152% | $2,310 | ||
2015 | $10.23 | (0.08) | (0.87) | (0.95) | — | $9.28 | (9.29)% | 1.89% | 2.09% | (0.76)% | (0.96)% | 93% | $5,479 | ||
R Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $10.14 | 0.12 | 0.36 | 0.48 | (0.23) | $10.39 | 4.73% | 1.39% | 1.41% | 1.18% | 1.16% | 241% | $20 | ||
2018 | $9.61 | 0.11 | 0.56 | 0.67 | (0.14) | $10.14 | 6.98% | 1.39% | 1.59% | 1.11% | 0.91% | 160% | $15 | ||
2017 | $9.29 | 0.11 | 0.21 | 0.32 | — | $9.61 | 3.44% | 1.39% | 1.59% | 1.18% | 0.98% | 173% | $113 | ||
2016 | $9.44 | 0.01 | (0.16) | (0.15) | — | $9.29 | (1.59)% | 1.40% | 1.60% | (0.03)% | (0.23)% | 152% | $105 | ||
2015 | $10.38 | (0.03) | (0.89) | (0.92) | (0.02) | $9.44 | (8.88)% | 1.39% | 1.59% | (0.26)% | (0.46)% | 93% | $106 | ||
R5 Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $10.40 | 0.20 | 0.36 | 0.56 | (0.28) | $10.68 | 5.46% | 0.69% | 0.71% | 1.88% | 1.86% | 241% | $136 | ||
2018 | $9.85 | 0.19 | 0.57 | 0.76 | (0.21) | $10.40 | 7.74% | 0.69% | 0.89% | 1.81% | 1.61% | 160% | $122 | ||
2017(4) | $9.77 | 0.05 | 0.03 | 0.08 | — | $9.85 | 0.82% | 0.69%(5) | 0.89%(5) | 2.42%(5) | 2.22%(5) | 173%(6) | $5 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day and do not reflect applicable sales charges, if any. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
(3) | Per-share amount was less than $0.005. |
(4) | April 10, 2017 (commencement of sale) through June 30, 2017. |
(5) | Annualized. |
(6) | Portfolio turnover is calculated at the fund level. Percentage indicated was calculated for the year ended June 30, 2017. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of Multi-Asset Real Return Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of Multi-Asset Real Return Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
38
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
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Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
40
Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
41
Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
42
Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was above its benchmark for the three- and five-year periods and below its benchmark for the one-year period reviewed by the Board. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
43
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer universe. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
44
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
45
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
46
Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $49,497, or up to the maximum amount allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
47
Notes |
48
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92993 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
NT Core Equity Plus Fund | |
G Class (ACNKX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
Performance | 2 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Statement of Cash Flows | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | |||||
Average Annual Returns | |||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | Since Inception | Inception Date | |
G Class | ACNKX | 5.56% | 7.72% | 12.70% | 12/1/11 |
S&P 500 Index | — | 10.42% | 10.71% | 14.38% | — |
Fund returns would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
Growth of $10,000 Over Life of Class |
$10,000 investment made December 1, 2011 |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
G Class — $24,756 | |
S&P 500 Index — $27,698 | |
Ending value of G Class would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | |
G Class | 1.66% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
2
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Claudia Musat and Steven Rossi
Performance Summary
NT Core Equity Plus returned 5.56%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, compared with the 10.42% return of its benchmark, the S&P 500 Index.
NT Core Equity Plus advanced during the fiscal year but underperformed its benchmark, the S&P 500 Index. The fund is managed to have a 100% net exposure to the equity market by investing approximately 130% of its net assets in long positions, while 30% of its net assets are sold short. The proceeds from the securities sold short are used to fund the purchase of the additional 30% of long positions.
The portfolio underperformed the benchmark by a wide margin as a result of disappointing stock selection decisions. Stock choices in the consumer discretionary, materials and consumer staples sectors detracted the most. On a positive note, positioning in the information technology and financials sectors benefited relative performance.
Stock Choices Across Several Sectors Detracted from Relative Returns
Within consumer discretionary, positioning within the hotels, restaurants and leisure industry was a leading detractor. Security selection within multiline retail also weighed on results. In the textiles, apparel and luxury goods industry, long positions in Capri Holdings and Tapestry were two of the largest individual detractors from performance. The stocks came under pressure during the period in part due to investor concern over slowing consumer demand. Both companies’ factor scores decreased during the period, and we closed the positions.
The materials sector also provided a headwind to returns. Stock choices within the chemicals industry hurt relative results, as did positioning among containers and packaging companies. In consumer staples, a long position in Edgewell Personal Care was among the top detractors from performance. The stock price slid during the period after an acquisition announcement. We exited the stock. Security selection within the beverages industry and positioning within household products both detracted.
Other notable detractors included a long position in Continental Resources. The stock fell early in the period amid oil price volatility. The stock maintains above-average scores for sentiment, quality and valuation factors. A long position in energy company Halliburton also detracted. Its factor scores deteriorated during the period, and we exited our position.
Information Technology and Financials Were Additive
Security choices in the software industry were a primary driver of returns for the information technology sector. A short position in 2U was one of the top individual performers for the year. The online education company’s stock fell on the back of reduced enrollment and falling revenue. The company earns poor scores for sentiment and valuation. We have closed the position. A long position in Cadence Design Systems was also among the leading contributors. The company maintains high scores across all four factors of our model. Selection within electronic equipment, instruments and components also bolstered returns, as did positioning within the communications equipment industry.
*Fund returns would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
3
Within the financials sector, security selection within banks bolstered results. Short positions in companies such as Sterling Bancorp, Home BancShares and First Financial Bancorp benefited returns as these companies struggled during the period amid slowing economic growth and falling interest rates. We have closed the positions in Sterling Bancorp and Home BancShares. Among other notable individual contributors, a long position in outdoor clothing and shoe company Deckers Outdoor was beneficial. The company beat earnings estimates and raised guidance several times throughout the 12 months. The retailer maintains above-average scores across all four model factors. A long holding in specialty retail company AutoZone was among the top individual contributors. The stock of the automotive parts retailer rose during the period and maintains high scores within our model for sentiment and quality.
A Look Ahead
Our disciplined, objective and systematic investment strategy is designed to take advantage of opportunities at the individual company level. We believe this approach is the most powerful way to capitalize on market inefficiencies that lead to the mispricing of individual stocks. Our strategy is designed to provide investors with well-diversified and risk-controlled exposure to broad U.S. equities. As such, we do not seek significant deviations in sector weightings versus the S&P 500 Index. Nevertheless, we can point to select sectors and industries where we are finding more or less investment opportunity.
At period-end, information technology was the most overweight sector. According to our factor model, the software and communications equipment industries offer some of the best opportunities in the current environment. Health care ended the period as the second-largest relative overweight. Based on our factor model, we believe there are significant opportunities for growth in the health care equipment and supplies industry. Conversely, our largest underweight at period-end was in the consumer staples sector, where our underweight is driven by a lower exposure to the household products industry. In addition, we are underweight consumer discretionary and utilities companies, where our model shows a comparative lack of opportunity.
4
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Long Holdings | % of net assets |
Apple, Inc. | 4.12% |
Amazon.com, Inc. | 4.04% |
Microsoft Corp. | 3.38% |
Alphabet, Inc., Class A | 3.29% |
Facebook, Inc., Class A | 2.64% |
JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 2.38% |
Visa, Inc., Class A | 1.97% |
Cisco Systems, Inc. | 1.93% |
Bank of America Corp. | 1.89% |
Verizon Communications, Inc. | 1.75% |
Top Five Short Holdings | % of net assets |
Graphic Packaging Holding Co. | (0.87)% |
Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc. | (0.84)% |
TFS Financial Corp. | (0.83)% |
First Solar, Inc. | (0.80)% |
Sotheby's | (0.80)% |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Common Stocks | 128.8% |
Common Stocks Sold Short | (30.1)% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 1.4% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | (0.1)% |
5
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
G Class | $1,000 | $1,148.20 | $3.83 | 0.72% |
Hypothetical | ||||
G Class | $1,000 | $1,021.22 | $3.61 | 0.72% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
6
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 128.8% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — 1.9% | ||||
Boeing Co. (The) | 1,332 | $ | 484,861 | |
Curtiss-Wright Corp. | 11,390 | 1,448,011 | ||
Hexcel Corp. | 34,367 | 2,779,603 | ||
L3 Technologies, Inc. | 900 | 220,653 | ||
Mercury Systems, Inc.(1) | 49,299 | 3,468,185 | ||
Raytheon Co. | 3,680 | 639,878 | ||
9,041,191 | ||||
Air Freight and Logistics — 0.6% | ||||
CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc. | 32,397 | 2,732,687 | ||
Banks — 11.5% | ||||
Bank of America Corp.(2) | 308,374 | 8,942,846 | ||
BB&T Corp.(2) | 100,062 | 4,916,046 | ||
Citigroup, Inc. | 14,577 | 1,020,827 | ||
Comerica, Inc. | 51,979 | 3,775,755 | ||
East West Bancorp, Inc. | 30,126 | 1,408,993 | ||
Fifth Third Bancorp | 156,184 | 4,357,534 | ||
First Citizens BancShares, Inc., Class A | 5,749 | 2,588,602 | ||
Huntington Bancshares, Inc. | 271,731 | 3,755,323 | ||
JPMorgan Chase & Co.(2) | 100,988 | 11,290,458 | ||
Popular, Inc. | 44,875 | 2,434,020 | ||
SunTrust Banks, Inc.(2) | 39,864 | 2,505,452 | ||
Wells Fargo & Co.(2) | 156,362 | 7,399,050 | ||
54,394,906 | ||||
Beverages — 1.3% | ||||
Coca-Cola Co. (The)(2) | 66,115 | 3,366,576 | ||
PepsiCo, Inc. | 19,807 | 2,597,292 | ||
5,963,868 | ||||
Biotechnology — 3.5% | ||||
AbbVie, Inc. | 44,874 | 3,263,237 | ||
Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 12,728 | 1,667,114 | ||
Amgen, Inc. | 17,419 | 3,209,973 | ||
Biogen, Inc.(1) | 8,931 | 2,088,693 | ||
Celgene Corp.(1) | 25,723 | 2,377,834 | ||
Genomic Health, Inc.(1) | 23,206 | 1,349,893 | ||
Gilead Sciences, Inc. | 9,614 | 649,522 | ||
Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 25,389 | 436,183 | ||
Incyte Corp.(1) | 20,776 | 1,765,129 | ||
16,807,578 | ||||
Building Products — 1.7% | ||||
Johnson Controls International plc | 111,916 | 4,623,250 |
7
Shares | Value | |||
Masco Corp. | 93,275 | $ | 3,660,111 | |
8,283,361 | ||||
Capital Markets — 3.2% | ||||
Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc., Class A | 142,034 | 3,908,776 | ||
BGC Partners, Inc., Class A | 186,105 | 973,329 | ||
Evercore, Inc., Class A | 38,955 | 3,450,244 | ||
FactSet Research Systems, Inc. | 4,015 | 1,150,539 | ||
LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. | 51,162 | 4,173,284 | ||
MSCI, Inc. | 6,262 | 1,495,303 | ||
15,151,475 | ||||
Chemicals — 0.4% | ||||
NewMarket Corp. | 4,736 | 1,898,852 | ||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 2.4% | ||||
Clean Harbors, Inc.(1) | 35,558 | 2,528,174 | ||
Republic Services, Inc. | 48,837 | 4,231,238 | ||
Waste Management, Inc. | 40,638 | 4,688,406 | ||
11,447,818 | ||||
Communications Equipment — 3.1% | ||||
Ciena Corp.(1) | 77,886 | 3,203,451 | ||
Cisco Systems, Inc.(2) | 166,708 | 9,123,929 | ||
Juniper Networks, Inc. | 22,944 | 610,999 | ||
Motorola Solutions, Inc. | 9,685 | 1,614,780 | ||
14,553,159 | ||||
Construction and Engineering — 0.1% | ||||
EMCOR Group, Inc. | 4,849 | 427,197 | ||
Consumer Finance — 2.8% | ||||
American Express Co. | 15,432 | 1,904,926 | ||
Credit Acceptance Corp.(1) | 7,181 | 3,474,383 | ||
Discover Financial Services(2) | 61,899 | 4,802,744 | ||
Green Dot Corp., Class A(1) | 5,880 | 287,532 | ||
Synchrony Financial | 79,472 | 2,755,294 | ||
13,224,879 | ||||
Containers and Packaging — 0.2% | ||||
Packaging Corp. of America | 8,600 | 819,752 | ||
Diversified Financial Services — 0.9% | ||||
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B(1) | 19,464 | 4,149,141 | ||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 2.3% | ||||
AT&T, Inc. | 18,827 | 630,893 | ||
CenturyLink, Inc. | 180,423 | 2,121,774 | ||
Verizon Communications, Inc.(2) | 144,774 | 8,270,939 | ||
11,023,606 | ||||
Electric Utilities — 0.8% | ||||
ALLETE, Inc. | 26,364 | 2,193,748 | ||
IDACORP, Inc. | 17,325 | 1,739,950 | ||
3,933,698 | ||||
Electrical Equipment — 0.2% | ||||
Rockwell Automation, Inc. | 6,555 | 1,073,906 |
8
Shares | Value | |||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 2.0% | ||||
FLIR Systems, Inc. | 38,220 | $ | 2,067,702 | |
Keysight Technologies, Inc.(1) | 32,146 | 2,887,032 | ||
National Instruments Corp. | 50,584 | 2,124,022 | ||
Zebra Technologies Corp., Class A(1) | 11,945 | 2,502,358 | ||
9,581,114 | ||||
Energy Equipment and Services — 0.5% | ||||
Patterson-UTI Energy, Inc. | 203,077 | 2,337,416 | ||
Entertainment — 3.1% | ||||
Activision Blizzard, Inc. | 91,660 | 4,326,352 | ||
Electronic Arts, Inc.(1) | 44,344 | 4,490,273 | ||
Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.(1) | 41,870 | 4,753,501 | ||
Walt Disney Co. (The) | 7,843 | 1,095,197 | ||
14,665,323 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 3.5% | ||||
American Homes 4 Rent, Class A | 99,312 | 2,414,275 | ||
CareTrust REIT, Inc. | 155,659 | 3,701,571 | ||
GEO Group, Inc. (The) | 186,175 | 3,911,537 | ||
Healthcare Trust of America, Inc., Class A | 40,470 | 1,110,092 | ||
Life Storage, Inc. | 33,410 | 3,176,623 | ||
Regency Centers Corp. | 17,660 | 1,178,628 | ||
Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc. | 90,147 | 1,235,915 | ||
16,728,641 | ||||
Food and Staples Retailing — 0.7% | ||||
Performance Food Group Co.(1) | 85,550 | 3,424,566 | ||
Food Products — 2.6% | ||||
Campbell Soup Co. | 83,085 | 3,329,216 | ||
General Mills, Inc. | 82,908 | 4,354,328 | ||
Hershey Co. (The) | 33,103 | 4,436,795 | ||
12,120,339 | ||||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 6.6% | ||||
ABIOMED, Inc.(1) | 940 | 244,861 | ||
Danaher Corp. | 29,918 | 4,275,880 | ||
Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. | 34,709 | 3,631,256 | ||
Hologic, Inc.(1) | 82,473 | 3,960,353 | ||
Integer Holdings Corp.(1) | 49,727 | 4,173,090 | ||
Masimo Corp.(1) | 2,941 | 437,680 | ||
Medtronic plc | 64,897 | 6,320,319 | ||
NuVasive, Inc.(1) | 68,917 | 4,034,401 | ||
Stryker Corp. | 19,732 | 4,056,504 | ||
31,134,344 | ||||
Health Care Providers and Services — 1.4% | ||||
Amedisys, Inc.(1) | 26,834 | 3,257,916 | ||
Chemed Corp. | 3,541 | 1,277,734 | ||
Ensign Group, Inc. (The) | 4,770 | 271,508 | ||
HealthEquity, Inc.(1) | 12,559 | 821,359 |
9
Shares | Value | |||
UnitedHealth Group, Inc. | 3,250 | $ | 793,033 | |
6,421,550 | ||||
Health Care Technology — 0.9% | ||||
Omnicell, Inc.(1) | 19,971 | 1,718,105 | ||
Veeva Systems, Inc., Class A(1) | 15,204 | 2,464,721 | ||
4,182,826 | ||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 2.2% | ||||
Cheesecake Factory, Inc. (The) | 22,927 | 1,002,369 | ||
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.(1) | 689 | 504,954 | ||
Darden Restaurants, Inc. | 29,397 | 3,578,497 | ||
Starbucks Corp. | 64,610 | 5,416,256 | ||
10,502,076 | ||||
Household Durables† | ||||
Garmin Ltd. | 2,788 | 222,482 | ||
Household Products — 0.2% | ||||
Procter & Gamble Co. (The) | 7,113 | 779,940 | ||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.3% | ||||
NRG Energy, Inc. | 42,144 | 1,480,097 | ||
Industrial Conglomerates — 0.4% | ||||
Honeywell International, Inc. | 10,542 | 1,840,528 | ||
Insurance — 2.0% | ||||
Mercury General Corp. | 64,037 | 4,002,313 | ||
MetLife, Inc. | 9,272 | 460,540 | ||
Progressive Corp. (The)(2) | 62,442 | 4,990,989 | ||
9,453,842 | ||||
Interactive Media and Services — 6.3% | ||||
Alphabet, Inc., Class A(1)(2) | 14,407 | 15,599,900 | ||
Facebook, Inc., Class A(1)(2) | 64,845 | 12,515,085 | ||
Snap, Inc., Class A(1) | 109,564 | 1,566,765 | ||
29,681,750 | ||||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 5.1% | ||||
Amazon.com, Inc.(1)(2) | 10,116 | 19,155,961 | ||
eBay, Inc.(2) | 126,602 | 5,000,779 | ||
24,156,740 | ||||
IT Services — 5.1% | ||||
Akamai Technologies, Inc.(1) | 47,858 | 3,835,340 | ||
Amdocs Ltd. | 32,030 | 1,988,743 | ||
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 18,225 | 4,821,059 | ||
PayPal Holdings, Inc.(1) | 22,819 | 2,611,863 | ||
Square, Inc., Class A(1) | 21,864 | 1,585,796 | ||
Visa, Inc., Class A(2) | 53,761 | 9,330,221 | ||
24,173,022 | ||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 3.4% | ||||
Agilent Technologies, Inc. | 39,355 | 2,938,638 | ||
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Class A(1) | 4,092 | 1,279,118 | ||
Illumina, Inc.(1) | 14,301 | 5,264,913 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.(2) | 23,168 | $ | 6,803,978 | |
16,286,647 | ||||
Machinery — 2.6% | ||||
Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. | 80,091 | 3,712,218 | ||
Cummins, Inc. | 5,316 | 910,844 | ||
Snap-on, Inc. | 26,249 | 4,347,884 | ||
Woodward, Inc. | 30,270 | 3,425,353 | ||
12,396,299 | ||||
Media — 0.5% | ||||
Comcast Corp., Class A | 52,084 | 2,202,112 | ||
Metals and Mining — 0.8% | ||||
Steel Dynamics, Inc. | 130,020 | 3,926,604 | ||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 6.3% | ||||
Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. | 150,648 | 3,458,878 | ||
Chevron Corp. | 34,664 | 4,313,588 | ||
ConocoPhillips | 5,419 | 330,559 | ||
Continental Resources, Inc.(1) | 25,280 | 1,064,035 | ||
CVR Energy, Inc. | 73,579 | 3,678,214 | ||
Delek US Holdings, Inc. | 91,272 | 3,698,342 | ||
EOG Resources, Inc. | 29,036 | 2,704,994 | ||
Exxon Mobil Corp. | 34,568 | 2,648,946 | ||
HollyFrontier Corp. | 75,171 | 3,478,914 | ||
Phillips 66 | 45,682 | 4,273,094 | ||
29,649,564 | ||||
Paper and Forest Products — 0.7% | ||||
Domtar Corp. | 72,015 | 3,206,828 | ||
Pharmaceuticals — 5.6% | ||||
Allergan plc | 13,459 | 2,253,440 | ||
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. | 31,958 | 1,449,295 | ||
Eli Lilly & Co. | 16,532 | 1,831,580 | ||
Horizon Therapeutics plc(1) | 42,410 | 1,020,385 | ||
Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc(1) | 7,917 | 1,128,648 | ||
Johnson & Johnson(2) | 56,318 | 7,843,971 | ||
Merck & Co., Inc. | 64,397 | 5,399,689 | ||
Pfizer, Inc. | 75,629 | 3,276,248 | ||
Zoetis, Inc. | 20,459 | 2,321,892 | ||
26,525,148 | ||||
Professional Services — 1.9% | ||||
ASGN, Inc.(1) | 10,122 | 613,393 | ||
CoStar Group, Inc.(1) | 7,056 | 3,909,447 | ||
Korn Ferry | 76,769 | 3,076,134 | ||
Robert Half International, Inc. | 26,587 | 1,515,725 | ||
9,114,699 | ||||
Road and Rail — 1.2% | ||||
CSX Corp. | 60,755 | 4,700,615 | ||
Norfolk Southern Corp. | 4,643 | 925,489 | ||
5,626,104 |
11
Shares | Value | |||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 4.2% | ||||
Broadcom, Inc. | 20,130 | $ | 5,794,622 | |
Cirrus Logic, Inc.(1) | 60,991 | 2,665,307 | ||
Intel Corp.(2) | 84,391 | 4,039,797 | ||
Qorvo, Inc.(1) | 25,578 | 1,703,750 | ||
QUALCOMM, Inc. | 23,957 | 1,822,409 | ||
Xilinx, Inc. | 32,899 | 3,879,450 | ||
19,905,335 | ||||
Software — 8.9% | ||||
Adobe, Inc.(1) | 11,029 | 3,249,695 | ||
Autodesk, Inc.(1) | 6,802 | 1,108,046 | ||
Cadence Design Systems, Inc.(1) | 65,929 | 4,668,432 | ||
Intuit, Inc.(2) | 20,859 | 5,451,082 | ||
LogMeIn, Inc. | 20,634 | 1,520,313 | ||
Microsoft Corp.(2) | 119,674 | 16,031,529 | ||
Oracle Corp. (New York) | 87,677 | 4,994,959 | ||
Proofpoint, Inc.(1) | 10,813 | 1,300,263 | ||
Teradata Corp.(1) | 72,716 | 2,606,869 | ||
VMware, Inc., Class A | 6,934 | 1,159,434 | ||
42,090,622 | ||||
Specialty Retail — 3.4% | ||||
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. | 38,602 | 652,374 | ||
AutoZone, Inc.(1)(2) | 3,710 | 4,079,034 | ||
Foot Locker, Inc. | 58,258 | 2,442,175 | ||
L Brands, Inc. | 10,144 | 264,758 | ||
Murphy USA, Inc.(1) | 43,582 | 3,662,196 | ||
O'Reilly Automotive, Inc.(1) | 7,822 | 2,888,821 | ||
Ulta Beauty, Inc.(1) | 6,255 | 2,169,797 | ||
16,159,155 | ||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals — 4.4% | ||||
Apple, Inc.(2) | 98,563 | 19,507,589 | ||
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co. | 90,502 | 1,353,005 | ||
20,860,594 | ||||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 2.1% | ||||
Deckers Outdoor Corp.(1) | 22,859 | 4,022,498 | ||
NIKE, Inc., Class B | 62,875 | 5,278,356 | ||
Ralph Lauren Corp. | 7,081 | 804,331 | ||
10,105,185 | ||||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — 0.8% | ||||
Essent Group Ltd.(1) | 78,110 | 3,670,389 | ||
Trading Companies and Distributors — 0.7% | ||||
HD Supply Holdings, Inc.(1) | 87,525 | 3,525,507 | ||
Transportation Infrastructure — 0.3% | ||||
Macquarie Infrastructure Corp. | 32,753 | 1,327,807 | ||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 1.2% | ||||
Shenandoah Telecommunications Co. | 81,924 | 3,155,712 | ||
Telephone & Data Systems, Inc. | 75,986 | 2,309,974 |
12
Shares | Value | |||
United States Cellular Corp.(1) | 5,050 | $ | 225,584 | |
5,691,270 | ||||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $485,163,181) | 610,083,539 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 1.4% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $5,768,963), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $5,665,220) | 5,664,158 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.375%, 7/15/27, valued at $1,098,098), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $1,075,112) | 1,075,000 | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 6,418 | 6,418 | ||
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $6,745,576) | 6,745,576 | |||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES BEFORE SECURITIES SOLD SHORT — 130.2% (Cost $491,908,757) | 616,829,115 | |||
COMMON STOCKS SOLD SHORT — (30.1)% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — (0.1)% | ||||
BWX Technologies, Inc. | (8,575) | (446,757) | ||
Auto Components — (0.4)% | ||||
LCI Industries | (23,143) | (2,082,870) | ||
Banks — (5.0)% | ||||
Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp. | (76,767) | (2,712,178) | ||
BOK Financial Corp. | (24,523) | (1,850,996) | ||
Cadence BanCorp | (75,742) | (1,575,434) | ||
First Financial Bancorp | (114,023) | (2,761,637) | ||
Fulton Financial Corp. | (206,316) | (3,377,393) | ||
Old National Bancorp | (212,862) | (3,531,380) | ||
Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc. | (69,525) | (3,996,297) | ||
United Bankshares, Inc. | (98,864) | (3,666,866) | ||
(23,472,181) | ||||
Beverages — (0.5)% | ||||
Brown-Forman Corp., Class B | (40,441) | (2,241,645) | ||
Biotechnology — (1.0)% | ||||
Global Blood Therapeutics, Inc. | (20,953) | (1,102,128) | ||
Madrigal Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (9,905) | (1,038,143) | ||
Sage Therapeutics, Inc. | (6,074) | (1,112,089) | ||
Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc. | (9,436) | (1,433,800) | ||
(4,686,160) | ||||
Building Products — (0.5)% | ||||
Trex Co., Inc. | (34,070) | (2,442,819) | ||
Capital Markets — (0.5)% | ||||
Ares Management Corp., Class A | (40,768) | (1,066,899) | ||
KKR & Co., Inc., Class A | (52,024) | (1,314,646) | ||
(2,381,545) | ||||
Commercial Services and Supplies — (0.3)% | ||||
Healthcare Services Group, Inc. | (30,028) | (910,449) | ||
13
Shares | Value | |||
Stericycle, Inc. | (5,671) | $ | (270,790 | ) |
(1,181,239) | ||||
Construction and Engineering — (0.7)% | ||||
Granite Construction, Inc. | (73,508) | (3,541,615) | ||
Consumer Finance — (0.4)% | ||||
SLM Corp. | (171,886) | (1,670,732) | ||
Containers and Packaging — (0.9)% | ||||
Graphic Packaging Holding Co. | (295,766) | (4,134,809) | ||
Distributors — (0.3)% | ||||
LKQ Corp. | (61,818) | (1,644,977) | ||
Diversified Consumer Services — (0.8)% | ||||
Laureate Education, Inc., Class A | (14,841) | (233,152) | ||
Sotheby's | (64,980) | (3,777,288) | ||
(4,010,440) | ||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — (1.6)% | ||||
Amphenol Corp., Class A | (5,512) | (528,821) | ||
Arrow Electronics, Inc. | (33,886) | (2,415,055) | ||
Cognex Corp. | (21,076) | (1,011,226) | ||
IPG Photonics Corp. | (24,014) | (3,704,160) | ||
(7,659,262) | ||||
Energy Equipment and Services — (0.5)% | ||||
McDermott International, Inc. | (257,493) | (2,487,382) | ||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — (1.8)% | ||||
Avanos Medical, Inc. | (77,919) | (3,398,048) | ||
Cantel Medical Corp. | (17,754) | (1,431,682) | ||
Neogen Corp. | (7,500) | (465,825) | ||
Wright Medical Group NV | (115,079) | (3,431,656) | ||
(8,727,211) | ||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — (1.8)% | ||||
Churchill Downs, Inc. | (23,445) | (2,697,816) | ||
Domino's Pizza, Inc. | (1,606) | (446,918) | ||
Eldorado Resorts, Inc. | (22,211) | (1,023,261) | ||
Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corp. | (24,923) | (2,402,577) | ||
Wynn Resorts Ltd. | (14,162) | (1,755,946) | ||
(8,326,518) | ||||
Household Durables — (1.2)% | ||||
Leggett & Platt, Inc. | (96,889) | (3,717,631) | ||
Mohawk Industries, Inc. | (13,954) | (2,057,796) | ||
(5,775,427) | ||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — (0.2)% | ||||
Ormat Technologies, Inc. | (18,445) | (1,169,229) | ||
Insurance — (0.5)% | ||||
WR Berkley Corp. | (37,017) | (2,440,531) | ||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — (0.4)% | ||||
Wayfair, Inc., Class A | (12,396) | (1,809,816) | ||
IT Services — (0.7)% | ||||
Twilio, Inc., Class A | (23,811) | (3,246,630) |
14
Shares | Value | |||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — (0.7)% | ||||
Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. | (24,413) | $ | (3,464,205 | ) |
Machinery — (0.8)% | ||||
Donaldson Co., Inc. | (53,763) | (2,734,386) | ||
Welbilt, Inc. | (54,506) | (910,250) | ||
(3,644,636) | ||||
Media — (0.3)% | ||||
New York Times Co. (The), Class A | (47,136) | (1,537,576) | ||
Metals and Mining† | ||||
United States Steel Corp. | (13,503) | (206,731) | ||
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — (0.1)% | ||||
AGNC Investment Corp. | (15,213) | (255,883) | ||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — (1.6)% | ||||
Diamondback Energy, Inc. | (2,155) | (234,830) | ||
Matador Resources Co. | (137,224) | (2,728,013) | ||
Noble Energy, Inc. | (27,089) | (606,794) | ||
Targa Resources Corp. | (71,438) | (2,804,656) | ||
Williams Cos., Inc. (The) | (42,853) | (1,201,598) | ||
(7,575,891) | ||||
Pharmaceuticals — (0.8)% | ||||
Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | (26,228) | (775,037) | ||
Catalent, Inc. | (29,095) | (1,577,240) | ||
Reata Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Class A | (13,482) | (1,272,027) | ||
(3,624,304) | ||||
Professional Services — (0.4)% | ||||
Equifax, Inc. | (12,618) | (1,706,458) | ||
Real Estate Management and Development — (1.2)% | ||||
Howard Hughes Corp. (The) | (28,610) | (3,543,062) | ||
Kennedy-Wilson Holdings, Inc. | (96,505) | (1,985,108) | ||
(5,528,170) | ||||
Road and Rail — (0.7)% | ||||
AMERCO | (8,786) | (3,325,940) | ||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — (0.9)% | ||||
Brooks Automation, Inc. | (14,347) | (555,946) | ||
First Solar, Inc. | (57,555) | (3,780,213) | ||
(4,336,159) | ||||
Software — (0.1)% | ||||
Trade Desk, Inc. (The), Class A | (1,632) | (371,737) | ||
Specialty Retail — (0.8)% | ||||
Burlington Stores, Inc. | (5,856) | (996,399) | ||
Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc., Class A | (20,761) | (869,886) | ||
Monro, Inc. | (16,624) | (1,418,027) | ||
Tiffany & Co. | (5,433) | (508,746) | ||
(3,793,058) | ||||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — (0.8)% | ||||
TFS Financial Corp. | (217,776) | (3,935,212) |
15
Shares | Value | |||
Trading Companies and Distributors — (0.3)% | ||||
GATX Corp. | (16,113) | $ | (1,277,600 | ) |
Water Utilities — (0.5)% | ||||
Aqua America, Inc. | (58,288) | (2,411,375) | ||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS SOLD SHORT (Proceeds $135,791,480) | (142,574,730) | |||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — (0.1)% | (586,221) | |||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 473,668,164 |
FUTURES CONTRACTS PURCHASED | |||||||||||
Reference Entity | Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount | Underlying Contract Value | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||
S&P 500 E-Mini | 39 | September 2019 | $ | 1,950 | $ | 5,741,190 | $ | 74,737 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
† | Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets. |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
(2) | Security, or a portion thereof, has been pledged at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements on securities sold short. At the period end, the aggregate value of securities pledged was $176,960,908. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
16
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $491,908,757) | $ | 616,829,115 | |
Deposits with broker for futures contracts | 245,700 | ||
Receivable for capital shares sold | 9,098 | ||
Receivable for variation margin on futures contracts | 25,936 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 479,118 | ||
617,588,967 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Securities sold short, at value (proceeds of $135,791,480) | 142,574,730 | ||
Disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 2,000 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 1,039,383 | ||
Dividend expense payable on securities sold short | 213,473 | ||
Fees and charges payable on borrowings for securities sold short | 91,217 | ||
143,920,803 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 473,668,164 | |
G Class Capital Shares, $0.01 Par Value | |||
Shares authorized | 320,000,000 | ||
Shares outstanding | 31,788,456 | ||
Net Asset Value Per Share | $ | 14.90 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 340,080,659 | |
Distributable earnings | 133,587,505 | ||
$ | 473,668,164 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
17
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $2,559) | $ | 11,280,734 | |
Interest | 127,693 | ||
11,408,427 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Dividend expense on securities sold short | 2,137,494 | ||
Management fees | 5,589,066 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 36,405 | ||
Fees and charges on borrowings for securities sold short | 1,233,289 | ||
Other expenses | 6,512 | ||
9,002,766 | |||
Fees waived | (5,589,066 | ) | |
3,413,700 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 7,994,727 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | 47,022,533 | ||
Securities sold short transactions | (1,507,523 | ) | |
Futures contract transactions | (633,449 | ) | |
44,881,561 | |||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments | (24,351,102 | ) | |
Securities sold short | (2,286,138 | ) | |
Futures contracts | 74,737 | ||
(26,562,503 | ) | ||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 18,319,058 | ||
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | 26,313,785 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
18
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 7,994,727 | $ | 10,307,697 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | 44,881,561 | 47,476,513 | ||||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (26,562,503 | ) | 27,946,512 | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 26,313,785 | 85,730,722 | ||||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings(1) | (77,661,868 | ) | (18,520,743 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Proceeds from shares sold | 19,586,934 | 18,649,225 | ||||
Proceeds from reinvestment of distributions | 77,661,868 | 18,520,743 | ||||
Payments for shares redeemed | (145,929,358 | ) | (129,145,890 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions | (48,680,556 | ) | (91,975,922 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (100,028,639 | ) | (24,765,943 | ) | ||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 573,696,803 | 598,462,746 | ||||
End of period | $ | 473,668,164 | $ | 573,696,803 | ||
Transactions in Shares of the Fund | ||||||
Sold | 1,285,249 | 1,133,604 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 5,682,052 | 1,098,889 | ||||
Redeemed | (9,138,414 | ) | (7,709,753 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in shares of the fund | (2,171,113 | ) | (5,477,260 | ) |
(1) | Prior period presentation has been updated to reflect the current period combination of distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains. Distributions from net investment income were $(9,744,111). Distributions from net realized gains were $(8,776,632). |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
19
Statement of Cash Flows |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Cash Flows From (Used In) Operating Activities | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | $ | 26,313,785 | |
Adjustments to reconcile net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations to net cash from (used in) operating activities: | |||
Purchases of investment securities | (622,321,941 | ) | |
Proceeds from investments sold | 774,971,121 | ||
Purchases to cover securities sold short | (209,944,987 | ) | |
Proceeds from securities sold short | 178,115,816 | ||
Proceeds from (payments on) futures contracts | (558,712 | ) | |
(Increase) decrease in short-term investments | 501,230 | ||
(Increase) decrease in deposits with broker for futures contracts | (245,700 | ) | |
(Increase) decrease in receivable for investments sold | 27,421,058 | ||
(Increase) decrease in dividends and interest receivable | 70,450 | ||
(Increase) decrease in receivable for variation margin on futures contracts | (25,936 | ) | |
Increase (decrease) in payable for investments purchased | (29,647,276 | ) | |
Increase (decrease) in dividend expense payable on securities sold short | 75,818 | ||
Increase (decrease) in fees and charges payable on borrowings for securities sold short | (51,829 | ) | |
Net realized (gain) loss on investment transactions | (47,022,533 | ) | |
Net realized (gain) loss on securities sold short transactions | 1,507,523 | ||
Net realized (gain) loss on futures contract transactions | 633,449 | ||
Change in net unrealized (appreciation) depreciation on investments | 24,351,102 | ||
Change in net unrealized (appreciation) depreciation on securities sold short | 2,286,138 | ||
Change in net unrealized (appreciation) depreciation on futures contracts | (74,737 | ) | |
Net cash from (used in) operating activities | 126,353,839 | ||
Cash Flows From (Used In) Financing Activities | |||
Proceeds from shares sold | 19,577,836 | ||
Payments for shares redeemed | (145,933,675 | ) | |
Increase (decrease) in disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 2,000 | ||
Net cash from (used in) financing activities | (126,353,839 | ) | |
Net Increase (Decrease) In Cash | — | ||
Cash at beginning of period | — | ||
Cash at end of period | — | ||
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: | |||
Non cash financing activities not included herein consist of all reinvestment of distributions of $77,661,868. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
20
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. NT Core Equity Plus Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital growth. The fund is not permitted to invest in securities issued by companies assigned the Global Industry Classification Standard or the Bloomberg Industry Classification Standard for the tobacco industry. The fund offers the G Class.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. Exchange-traded futures contracts are valued at the settlement price as provided by the appropriate exchange.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
21
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.
Securities Sold Short — The fund enters into short sales, which is selling securities it does not own, as part of its normal investment activities. Upon selling a security short, the fund will segregate cash, cash equivalents or other appropriate liquid securities in at least an amount equal to the current market value of the securities sold short until the fund replaces the borrowed security. Interest earned on segregated cash for securities sold short, if any, is reflected as interest income. The fund is required to pay any dividends or interest due on securities sold short. Such dividends and interest are recorded as an expense. The fund may pay fees or charges on the assets borrowed for securities sold short. These fees are calculated daily based upon the value of each security sold short and a rate that is dependent on the availability of such security. Liabilities for securities sold short are valued daily and changes in value are recorded as change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on securities sold short. The fund records realized gain (loss) on a security sold short when it is terminated by the fund and includes as a component of net realized gain (loss) on securities sold short transactions.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Segregated Assets — In accordance with the 1940 Act, the fund segregates assets on its books and records to cover certain types of investment securities and other financial instruments. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities segregated to ensure the fund designates a sufficient amount of liquid assets, marked-to-market daily. The fund may also receive assets or be required to pledge assets at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid semiannually. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually. The fund may elect to treat a portion of its payment to a redeeming shareholder, which represents the pro rata share of undistributed net investment income and net realized gains, as a distribution for federal income tax purposes (tax equalization).
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Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
Statement of Cash Flows — The Statement of Cash Flows has been prepared using the indirect method which requires net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations to be adjusted to reconcile to net cash from (used in) operating activities. The beginning of period and end of period cash is the amount of domestic and foreign currency included in the fund's Statement of Assets and Liabilities and represents the cash on hand at the custodian bank and does not include any short-term investments or deposits for financial instruments.
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc., and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC. Various funds issued by American Century Asset Allocation Portfolios, Inc. own, in aggregate, 100% of the shares of the fund. Related parties do not invest in the fund for the purpose of exercising management or control.
Management Fees —The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee). The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except expenses on securities sold short, brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on the daily net assets of the fund and paid monthly in arrears. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds. The rates for the Investment Category Fee range from 0.9680% to 1.1500%. The rates for the Complex Fee range from 0.0500% to 0.1100%. The investment advisor agreed to waive the funds management fee in its entirety. The investment advisor expects this waiver to remain in effect permanently and cannot terminate it without the approval of the Board of Directors. The effective annual management fee for the period ended June 30, 2019 was 1.09% before waiver and 0.00% after waiver.
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $12,292,939 and $8,442,063, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $182,921 in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities and securities sold short, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $832,266,928 and $952,399,308, respectively.
5. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
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• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 610,083,539 | — | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 6,418 | $ | 6,739,158 | — | ||||
$ | 610,089,957 | $ | 6,739,158 | — | ||||
Other Financial Instruments | ||||||||
Futures Contracts | $ | 74,737 | — | — | ||||
Liabilities | ||||||||
Securities Sold Short | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 142,574,730 | — | — |
6. Derivative Instruments
Equity Price Risk — The fund is subject to equity price risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. A fund may enter into futures contracts based on an equity index in order to manage its exposure to changes in market conditions. A fund may purchase futures contracts to gain exposure to increases in market value or sell futures contracts to protect against a decline in market value. Upon entering into a futures contract, a fund is required to deposit either cash or securities in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract value (initial margin). Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received daily, in cash, by a fund. The variation margin is equal to the daily change in the contract value and is recorded as unrealized gains and losses. A fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when the contract is closed or expires. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of futures contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts, respectively. One of the risks of entering into futures contracts is the possibility that the change in value of the contract may not correlate with the changes in value of the underlying securities. The fund's average notional exposure to equity price risk derivative instruments held during the period was $1,550 futures contracts purchased.
The value of equity price risk derivative instruments as of June 30, 2019, is disclosed on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an asset of $25,936 in receivable for variation margin on futures contracts*. For the year ended June 30, 2019, the effect of equity price risk derivative instruments on the Statement of Operations was $(633,449) in net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and $74,737 in change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts.
* Included in the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments.
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7. Risk Factors
The fund is owned by a relatively small number of shareholders, and in the event such shareholders redeem, the ongoing operations of the fund may be at risk.
The fund is subject to short sales risk. If the market price of a security increases after the fund borrows the security, the fund may suffer a loss when it replaces the borrowed security at the higher price. Any loss will be increased by the amount of compensation, interest or dividends, and transaction costs the fund must pay to the lender of the borrowed security.
The fund's investment strategy utilizes leverage, which can increase market exposure and subject the fund to greater risk and higher volatility.
If the fund is overweighted in a stock or sector, any negative development related to that stock or sector will have a greater impact on the fund than other funds that are not overweighted in that stock or sector.
The fund’s investment process may result in high portfolio turnover, which could mean high transaction costs, affecting both performance and capital gains tax liabilities to investors.
8. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 7,670,813 | $ | 9,744,111 | ||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 69,991,055 | $ | 8,776,632 |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 492,880,052 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 134,070,926 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (10,121,863 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | 123,949,063 | ||
Gross tax appreciation on securities sold short | 4,899,380 | ||
Gross tax depreciation on securities sold short | (12,072,940 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) | $ | 116,775,503 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | — | ||
Accumulated long-term gains | $ | 16,812,002 |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
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Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | ||||||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | ||||||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (before expense waiver) | Operating Expenses (excluding expenses on securities sold short) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Net Investment Income (Loss) (before expense waiver) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
G Class | ||||||||||||||||||
2019 | $16.89 | 0.24 | 0.41 | 0.65 | (0.23) | (2.41) | (2.64) | $14.90 | 5.56% | 0.67% | 1.76% | 0.01% | 1.56% | 0.47% | 126% | $473,668 | ||
2018 | $15.18 | 0.28 | 1.95 | 2.23 | (0.28) | (0.24) | (0.52) | $16.89 | 14.82% | 0.66% | 1.66% | 0.10% | 1.71% | 0.71% | 100% | $573,697 | ||
2017 | $13.10 | 0.09 | 2.08 | 2.17 | (0.09) | — | (0.09) | $15.18 | 16.45% | 1.79% | 1.79% | 1.10% | 0.64% | 0.64% | 111% | $598,463 | ||
2016 | $14.41 | 0.14 | (0.44) | (0.30) | (0.12) | (0.89) | (1.01) | $13.10 | (1.96)% | 1.68% | 1.68% | 1.10% | 1.01% | 1.01% | 109% | $530,104 | ||
2015 | $15.55 | 0.16 | 0.58 | 0.74 | (0.14) | (1.74) | (1.88) | $14.41 | 4.86% | 1.53% | 1.53% | 1.10% | 1.03% | 1.03% | 106% | $474,697 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of NT Core Equity Plus Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of NT Core Equity Plus Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statements of operations and cash flows for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
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Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
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Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
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Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
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Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
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Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was below its benchmark for the one-, three-, and five-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board discussed the Fund’s performance with the Advisor and was satisfied with the efforts being undertaken by the Advisor. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
32
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer group. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
33
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
34
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
35
Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $7,670,813, or up to the maximum amount allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
The fund hereby designates $72,869,218, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund utilized earnings and profits of $3,104,471 distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares as part of the dividends paid deduction (tax equalization).
36
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92999 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
NT Disciplined Growth Fund | |
Investor Class (ANTDX) | |
G Class (ANDGX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
Performance | 2 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | ||||
Average Annual Returns | ||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | Since Inception | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | ANTDX | 6.76% | 9.33% | 3/19/15 |
Russell 1000 Growth Index | — | 11.56% | 12.85% | — |
G Class | ANDGX | 7.80% | 9.93% | 3/19/15 |
G Class returns would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
Growth of $10,000 Over Life of Class |
$10,000 investment made March 19, 2015 |
Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure. |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $14,653 | |
Russell 1000 Growth Index — $16,785 | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | |
Investor Class | G Class |
1.01% | 0.81% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
2
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Yulin Long and Tsuyoshi Ozaki
Performance Summary
NT Disciplined Growth returned 7.80%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, compared with the 11.56% return of its benchmark, the Russell 1000 Growth Index.
NT Disciplined Growth advanced during the fiscal year, but underperformed its benchmark, the Russell 1000 Growth Index. Stock selection in the information technology and consumer staples sectors detracted, while positioning in utilities benefited relative performance.
Positioning Across Several Sectors Detracted from Relative Returns
Security selections in the information technology sector were the largest drivers of relative underperformance. Stock choices in the technology hardware, storage and peripherals industry provided the biggest headwind for returns. Western Digital was among the top individual detractors for the period. The price of the data storage device company was hurt during the 12 months by concerns over trade with China and weak earnings. Factor scores fell, and we closed the position during the period. In semiconductors and semiconductor equipment, a position in Xilinx was also among the largest detractors. Elsewhere in the sector, holdings among electronic equipment, instruments and components and communications equipment industries also constrained performance.
Stock selection within consumer staples also negatively affected the portfolio. Security choices in the beverages industry hurt relative results the most in the sector. Reduced exposure to The Coca-Cola Co., which performed well the last several months of the period, was among the top individual detractors from performance. Positioning in Constellation Brands and PepsiCo also weighed on returns. We have since exited our position in Constellation Brands. Elsewhere in the sector, stock choices in the personal products industry detracted, as did positioning in household products.
Within the energy sector, an overweight to Halliburton was among the top detractors from overall performance. Other notable individual detractors outside these sectors included positions in luxury accessory maker Tapestry, which owns brands such as Coach and Kate Spade, and materials company Steel Dynamics were among the top individual detractors. The stocks of both companies slid during the period, due in part to investor concerns over weakening demand from non-U.S. consumers. We closed our positions in Halliburton, Tapestry and Steel Dynamics prior to the end of the 12 months.
Security Choices within Utilities and Elsewhere Were Additive
Within the utilities sector, a position in NRG Energy helped relative returns. We have since exited the position. Elsewhere in the portfolio, several stocks contributed meaningfully to performance. Specialty retail company AutoZone was among the top individual contributors. The stock of the automotive parts retailer rose during the period. The stock maintains high scores within our model for sentiment and quality. A position in outdoor clothing and shoe retailer Deckers Outdoor was also beneficial. The company beat earnings estimates and raised guidance several times throughout the 12 months. The retailer maintains above-average scores across all four model factors.
*All fund returns referenced in this commentary are for G Class shares. G Class returns would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived. Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure; when G Class performance exceeds that of the fund’s benchmark, other share classes may not. See page 2 for returns for all share classes.
3
Reduced exposure to electronic component manufacturer NVIDIA was also among the top contributors. The stock slid during the period amid concerns over trade with China; its growth and quality scores deteriorated. We have since exited the position.
A Look Ahead
Our disciplined, objective and systematic investment strategy is designed to take advantage of opportunities at the individual company level. We believe this approach is the most powerful way to capitalize on market inefficiencies that lead to the mispricing of individual stocks. As a result of this approach, our sector and industry allocations reflect where we are finding the greatest opportunities among individual companies at a given time.
At period-end, information technology was the most overweight sector. Based on our models, we are currently seeing opportunities in the software and technology hardware, storage and peripherals industries. Consumer discretionary is also among our largest active weights as of period-end. Based on our factor model, we believe there are significant opportunities in the textiles, apparel and luxury goods and specialty retail industries. Conversely, we are underweight the industrials and materials sectors. Industrial conglomerates and machinery companies show a lack of opportunity and are comparatively unattractive in terms of our model metrics. In the materials sector, our underweight is driven by a lack of exposure across multiple industry groups, particularly chemicals.
4
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Holdings | % of net assets |
Microsoft Corp. | 7.9% |
Apple, Inc. | 7.7% |
Amazon.com, Inc. | 6.6% |
Alphabet, Inc., Class A | 5.3% |
Facebook, Inc., Class A | 3.6% |
Visa, Inc., Class A | 3.3% |
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 2.4% |
PayPal Holdings, Inc. | 1.8% |
Starbucks Corp. | 1.7% |
Illumina, Inc. | 1.4% |
Top Five Industries | % of net assets |
Software | 14.5% |
IT Services | 9.9% |
Interactive Media and Services | 8.9% |
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals | 7.7% |
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail | 7.5% |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Common Stocks | 99.7% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 0.2% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | 0.1% |
5
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,192.20 | $5.54 | 1.02% |
G Class | $1,000 | $1,197.30 | $0.05 | 0.01% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,019.74 | $5.11 | 1.02% |
G Class | $1,000 | $1,024.74 | $0.05 | 0.01% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
6
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 99.7% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — 1.2% | ||||
Boeing Co. (The) | 7,131 | $ | 2,595,755 | |
Lockheed Martin Corp. | 3,232 | 1,174,961 | ||
Mercury Systems, Inc.(1) | 26,793 | 1,884,888 | ||
5,655,604 | ||||
Air Freight and Logistics — 0.7% | ||||
CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc. | 12,064 | 1,017,598 | ||
United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B | 20,814 | 2,149,462 | ||
3,167,060 | ||||
Banks — 0.9% | ||||
Central Pacific Financial Corp. | 97,204 | 2,912,232 | ||
Comerica, Inc. | 18,247 | 1,325,462 | ||
Independent Bank Corp. | 13,193 | 287,475 | ||
4,525,169 | ||||
Beverages — 2.4% | ||||
Coca-Cola Co. (The) | 73,577 | 3,746,541 | ||
Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. | 1,734 | 518,900 | ||
Monster Beverage Corp.(1) | 21,004 | 1,340,685 | ||
PepsiCo, Inc. | 46,785 | 6,134,917 | ||
11,741,043 | ||||
Biotechnology — 2.9% | ||||
AbbVie, Inc. | 67,902 | 4,937,833 | ||
Amgen, Inc. | 14,787 | 2,724,948 | ||
Biogen, Inc.(1) | 6,418 | 1,500,978 | ||
Celgene Corp.(1) | 24,913 | 2,302,958 | ||
Gilead Sciences, Inc. | 11,621 | 785,115 | ||
Incyte Corp.(1) | 18,733 | 1,591,556 | ||
Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 1,818 | 333,385 | ||
14,176,773 | ||||
Building Products — 0.8% | ||||
Masco Corp. | 99,650 | 3,910,266 | ||
Capital Markets — 1.5% | ||||
Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc., Class A | 5,510 | 151,635 | ||
Evercore, Inc., Class A | 21,691 | 1,921,172 | ||
FactSet Research Systems, Inc. | 5,470 | 1,567,483 | ||
MSCI, Inc. | 10,638 | 2,540,248 | ||
Piper Jaffray Cos. | 12,919 | 959,494 | ||
7,140,032 | ||||
Chemicals† | ||||
Scotts Miracle-Gro Co. (The) | 644 | 63,434 | ||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 1.9% | ||||
Republic Services, Inc. | 48,984 | 4,243,974 |
7
Shares | Value | |||
Waste Management, Inc. | 41,544 | $ | 4,792,931 | |
9,036,905 | ||||
Communications Equipment — 1.1% | ||||
Motorola Solutions, Inc. | 32,667 | 5,446,569 | ||
Construction and Engineering — 0.2% | ||||
Comfort Systems USA, Inc. | 7,408 | 377,734 | ||
EMCOR Group, Inc. | 5,794 | 510,451 | ||
888,185 | ||||
Distributors — 0.4% | ||||
Core-Mark Holding Co., Inc. | 55,086 | 2,188,016 | ||
Diversified Consumer Services — 0.1% | ||||
ServiceMaster Global Holdings, Inc.(1) | 6,827 | 355,619 | ||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 1.4% | ||||
CDW Corp. | 43,656 | 4,845,816 | ||
FLIR Systems, Inc. | 2,214 | 119,777 | ||
National Instruments Corp. | 21,490 | 902,365 | ||
Zebra Technologies Corp., Class A(1) | 4,407 | 923,223 | ||
6,791,181 | ||||
Entertainment — 4.1% | ||||
Activision Blizzard, Inc. | 88,594 | 4,181,637 | ||
Electronic Arts, Inc.(1) | 48,942 | 4,955,867 | ||
Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.(1) | 1,458 | 96,592 | ||
Netflix, Inc.(1) | 8,979 | 3,298,166 | ||
Rosetta Stone, Inc.(1) | 38,751 | 886,623 | ||
Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.(1) | 34,511 | 3,918,034 | ||
Walt Disney Co. (The) | 18,645 | 2,603,588 | ||
19,940,507 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 1.5% | ||||
American Tower Corp. | 15,169 | 3,101,302 | ||
GEO Group, Inc. (The) | 81,665 | 1,715,782 | ||
Life Storage, Inc. | 16,740 | 1,591,639 | ||
Saul Centers, Inc. | 9,515 | 534,077 | ||
SBA Communications Corp.(1) | 2,017 | 453,502 | ||
7,396,302 | ||||
Food and Staples Retailing — 0.3% | ||||
Costco Wholesale Corp. | 4,786 | 1,264,748 | ||
Food Products — 1.7% | ||||
General Mills, Inc. | 72,797 | 3,823,298 | ||
Hershey Co. (The) | 31,653 | 4,242,452 | ||
John B Sanfilippo & Son, Inc. | 2,696 | 214,844 | ||
8,280,594 | ||||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 1.9% | ||||
DexCom, Inc.(1) | 11,302 | 1,693,492 | ||
Integer Holdings Corp.(1) | 39,806 | 3,340,519 | ||
Stryker Corp. | 21,331 | 4,385,227 | ||
9,419,238 |
8
Shares | Value | |||
Health Care Providers and Services — 2.6% | ||||
Amedisys, Inc.(1) | 27,577 | $ | 3,348,124 | |
Chemed Corp. | 3,305 | 1,192,576 | ||
CorVel Corp.(1) | 18,467 | 1,606,814 | ||
HealthEquity, Inc.(1) | 29,645 | 1,938,783 | ||
UnitedHealth Group, Inc. | 19,141 | 4,670,595 | ||
12,756,892 | ||||
Health Care Technology — 1.1% | ||||
Veeva Systems, Inc., Class A(1) | 32,919 | 5,336,499 | ||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 2.9% | ||||
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.(1) | 1,426 | 1,045,087 | ||
Darden Restaurants, Inc. | 36,533 | 4,447,162 | ||
Starbucks Corp. | 99,350 | 8,328,511 | ||
13,820,760 | ||||
Household Products — 0.7% | ||||
Colgate-Palmolive Co. | 44,426 | 3,184,011 | ||
Insurance — 1.2% | ||||
Progressive Corp. (The) | 74,289 | 5,937,920 | ||
Interactive Media and Services — 8.9% | ||||
Alphabet, Inc., Class A(1) | 23,625 | 25,581,150 | ||
Facebook, Inc., Class A(1) | 90,182 | 17,405,126 | ||
42,986,276 | ||||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 7.5% | ||||
Amazon.com, Inc.(1) | 16,835 | 31,879,261 | ||
eBay, Inc. | 107,212 | 4,234,874 | ||
36,114,135 | ||||
IT Services — 9.9% | ||||
Accenture plc, Class A | 8,081 | 1,493,127 | ||
Akamai Technologies, Inc.(1) | 41,166 | 3,299,043 | ||
EVERTEC, Inc. | 99,241 | 3,245,181 | ||
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 43,955 | 11,627,416 | ||
Okta, Inc.(1) | 16,314 | 2,014,942 | ||
PayPal Holdings, Inc.(1) | 74,184 | 8,491,101 | ||
Square, Inc., Class A(1) | 24,951 | 1,809,696 | ||
Visa, Inc., Class A | 91,497 | 15,879,304 | ||
47,859,810 | ||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 2.4% | ||||
Illumina, Inc.(1) | 18,028 | 6,637,008 | ||
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. | 16,519 | 4,851,300 | ||
11,488,308 | ||||
Machinery — 1.3% | ||||
Albany International Corp., Class A | 10,081 | 835,816 | ||
Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. | 44,278 | 2,052,285 | ||
Woodward, Inc. | 28,251 | 3,196,883 | ||
6,084,984 | ||||
Multiline Retail — 0.7% | ||||
Dollar General Corp. | 24,507 | 3,312,366 |
9
Shares | Value | |||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 0.9% | ||||
CVR Energy, Inc. | 85,843 | $ | 4,291,292 | |
Pharmaceuticals — 1.6% | ||||
Eli Lilly & Co. | 17,990 | 1,993,112 | ||
Johnson & Johnson | 7,588 | 1,056,857 | ||
Merck & Co., Inc. | 18,585 | 1,558,352 | ||
Zoetis, Inc. | 28,762 | 3,264,199 | ||
7,872,520 | ||||
Professional Services — 0.7% | ||||
CoStar Group, Inc.(1) | 6,284 | 3,481,713 | ||
Road and Rail — 1.0% | ||||
CSX Corp. | 61,836 | 4,784,251 | ||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 2.2% | ||||
Broadcom, Inc. | 20,075 | 5,778,790 | ||
Cypress Semiconductor Corp. | 26,546 | 590,383 | ||
Lattice Semiconductor Corp.(1) | 139,019 | 2,028,287 | ||
Qorvo, Inc.(1) | 15,440 | 1,028,458 | ||
Xilinx, Inc. | 9,130 | 1,076,610 | ||
10,502,528 | ||||
Software — 14.5% | ||||
Adobe, Inc.(1) | 7,707 | 2,270,868 | ||
ANSYS, Inc.(1) | 5,392 | 1,104,389 | ||
Aspen Technology, Inc.(1) | 12,943 | 1,608,556 | ||
Atlassian Corp. plc, Class A(1) | 18,661 | 2,441,605 | ||
Autodesk, Inc.(1) | 19,700 | 3,209,130 | ||
Cadence Design Systems, Inc.(1) | 61,345 | 4,343,839 | ||
Fair Isaac Corp.(1) | 2,622 | 823,360 | ||
Intuit, Inc. | 24,541 | 6,413,300 | ||
Manhattan Associates, Inc.(1) | 10,688 | 740,999 | ||
Microsoft Corp. | 284,880 | 38,162,525 | ||
Paycom Software, Inc.(1) | 14,143 | 3,206,501 | ||
salesforce.com, Inc.(1) | 17,576 | 2,666,807 | ||
ServiceNow, Inc.(1) | 11,390 | 3,127,352 | ||
70,119,231 | ||||
Specialty Retail — 3.5% | ||||
AutoZone, Inc.(1) | 4,867 | 5,351,121 | ||
Home Depot, Inc. (The) | 21,251 | 4,419,570 | ||
Murphy USA, Inc.(1) | 25,983 | 2,183,351 | ||
O'Reilly Automotive, Inc.(1) | 13,028 | 4,811,501 | ||
16,765,543 | ||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals — 7.7% | ||||
Apple, Inc. | 188,298 | 37,267,940 | ||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 1.8% | ||||
Deckers Outdoor Corp.(1) | 25,115 | 4,419,486 | ||
NIKE, Inc., Class B | 50,689 | 4,255,342 | ||
8,674,828 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — 1.0% | ||||
Essent Group Ltd.(1) | 82,010 | $ | 3,853,650 | |
NMI Holdings, Inc., Class A(1) | 32,538 | 923,754 | ||
4,777,404 | ||||
Trading Companies and Distributors — 0.5% | ||||
Foundation Building Materials, Inc.(1) | 27,664 | 491,866 | ||
HD Supply Holdings, Inc.(1) | 47,874 | 1,928,365 | ||
2,420,231 | ||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.1% | ||||
T-Mobile US, Inc.(1) | 6,190 | 458,927 | ||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $355,515,630) | 481,685,614 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 0.2% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $617,997), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $606,884) | 606,770 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.375%, 7/15/27, valued at $121,424), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $115,012) | 115,000 | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 10,450 | 10,450 | ||
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $732,220) | 732,220 | |||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES — 99.9% (Cost $356,247,850) | 482,417,834 | |||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — 0.1% | 722,193 | |||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 483,140,027 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
† | Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets. |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
11
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $356,247,850) | $ | 482,417,834 | |
Receivable for investments sold | 11,147,379 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 173,368 | ||
493,738,581 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 9,818 | ||
Payable for investments purchased | 8,147,686 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 2,347,704 | ||
Accrued management fees | 93,346 | ||
10,598,554 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 483,140,027 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 350,877,706 | |
Distributable earnings | 132,262,321 | ||
$ | 483,140,027 |
Net Assets | Shares Outstanding | Net Asset Value Per Share | ||||
Investor Class, $0.01 Par Value | $114,600,188 | 9,324,449 | $12.29 | |||
G Class, $0.01 Par Value | $368,539,839 | 29,926,618 | $12.31 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
12
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends | $ | 6,258,647 | |
Interest | 74,945 | ||
6,333,592 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Management fees | 4,328,161 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 35,824 | ||
Other expenses | 13,391 | ||
4,377,376 | |||
Fees waived - G Class | (3,171,229 | ) | |
1,206,147 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 5,127,445 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions | 27,327,955 | ||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | 4,676,422 | ||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 32,004,377 | ||
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | 37,131,822 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
13
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 5,127,445 | $ | 5,503,263 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | 27,327,955 | 59,983,314 | ||||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 4,676,422 | 38,144,547 | ||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 37,131,822 | 103,631,124 | ||||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings:(1) | ||||||
Investor Class | (12,696,691 | ) | (3,614,812 | ) | ||
G Class | (48,148,677 | ) | (18,356,862 | ) | ||
Decrease in net assets from distributions | (60,845,368 | ) | (21,971,674 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions (Note 5) | (44,155,811 | ) | (86,893,311 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (67,869,357 | ) | (5,233,861 | ) | ||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 551,009,384 | 556,243,245 | ||||
End of period | $ | 483,140,027 | $ | 551,009,384 |
(1) | Prior period presentation has been updated to reflect the current period combination of distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains. Distributions from net investment income were $(261,486) and $(4,961,641) for Investor Class and G Class, respectively. Distributions from net realized gains were $(3,353,326) and $(13,395,221) for Investor Class and G Class, respectively. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
14
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. NT Disciplined Growth Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital growth. The fund is not permitted to invest in securities issued by companies assigned the Global Industry Classification Standard or the Bloomberg Industry Classification Standard for the tobacco industry. The fund offers the Investor Class and G Class.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
15
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Multiple Class — All shares of the fund represent an equal pro rata interest in the net assets of the class to which such shares belong, and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the fund are allocated to each class of shares based on their relative net assets.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid semiannually. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually. The fund may elect to treat a portion of its payment to a redeeming shareholder, which represents the pro rata share of undistributed net investment income and net realized gains, as a distribution for federal income tax purposes (tax equalization).
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc., and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC. Various funds issued by American Century Asset Allocation Portfolios, Inc. own, in aggregate, 100% of the shares of the fund. Related parties do not invest in the fund for the purpose of exercising management or control.
16
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee) per class. The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on each class's daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The difference in the fee among the classes is a result of their separate arrangements for non-Rule 12b-1 shareholder services, which may be provided indirectly through another American Century Investments mutual fund. It is not the result of any difference in advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the fund’s assets, which do not vary by class. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds. The investment advisor agreed to waive the G Class’s management fee in its entirety. The investment advisor expects this waiver to remain in effect permanently and cannot terminate it without the approval of the Board of Directors.
The Investment Category Fee range, the Complex Fee range and the effective annual management fee for each class for the period ended June 30, 2019 are as follows:
Investment Category Fee Range | Complex Fee Range | Effective Annual Management Fee | |
Investor Class | 0.6880% to 0.8700% | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 1.01% |
G Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.00%(1) |
(1) Effective annual management fee before waiver was 0.81%.
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $7,771,493 and $4,504,980, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $(253,659) in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $578,062,714 and $676,954,871, respectively.
17
5. Capital Share Transactions
Transactions in shares of the fund were as follows:
Year ended June 30, 2019 | Year ended June 30, 2018 | |||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||
Investor Class/Shares Authorized | 80,000,000 | 80,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 116,272 | $ | 1,236,821 | 216,714 | $ | 2,721,186 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 1,169,815 | 12,696,691 | 290,418 | 3,614,812 | ||||||
Redeemed | (1,171,841 | ) | (14,832,929 | ) | (628,753 | ) | (7,892,158 | ) | ||
114,246 | (899,417 | ) | (121,621 | ) | (1,556,160 | ) | ||||
G Class/Shares Authorized | 330,000,000 | 330,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 2,221,257 | 27,299,692 | 902,193 | 11,218,441 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 4,404,423 | 48,148,677 | 1,459,107 | 18,356,862 | ||||||
Redeemed | (9,437,095 | ) | (118,704,763 | ) | (9,039,547 | ) | (114,912,454 | ) | ||
(2,811,415 | ) | (43,256,394 | ) | (6,678,247 | ) | (85,337,151 | ) | |||
Net increase (decrease) | (2,697,169 | ) | $ | (44,155,811 | ) | (6,799,868 | ) | $ | (86,893,311 | ) |
6. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 481,685,614 | — | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 10,450 | $ | 721,770 | — | ||||
$ | 481,696,064 | $ | 721,770 | — |
7. Risk Factors
The fund is owned by a relatively small number of shareholders, and in the event such shareholders redeem, the ongoing operations of the fund may be at risk.
The fund’s investment process may result in high portfolio turnover, which could mean high transaction costs, affecting both performance and capital gains tax liabilities to investors.
18
8. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 21,777,059 | $ | 10,461,192 | ||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 39,068,309 | $ | 11,510,482 |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 358,039,139 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 127,062,171 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (2,683,476 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | $ | 124,378,695 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | — | ||
Accumulated long-term gains | $ | 18,438,968 | |
Post-October capital loss deferral | $ | (10,555,342 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
Loss deferrals represent certain qualified losses that the fund has elected to treat as having been incurred in the following fiscal year for federal income tax purposes.
19
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $13.13 | 0.03 | 0.65 | 0.68 | (0.04) | (1.48) | (1.52) | $12.29 | 6.76% | 1.02% | 0.23% | 115% | $114,600 | ||
2018 | $11.41 | 0.03 | 2.10 | 2.13 | (0.03) | (0.38) | (0.41) | $13.13 | 18.85% | 1.01% | 0.22% | 105% | $120,907 | ||
2017 | $9.49 | 0.05 | 1.92 | 1.97 | (0.05) | — | (0.05) | $11.41 | 20.83% | 1.02% | 0.51% | 131% | $106,476 | ||
2016 | $9.77 | 0.06 | (0.27) | (0.21) | (0.07) | — | (0.07) | $9.49 | (2.18)% | 1.02% | 0.62% | 118% | $92,560 | ||
2015(3) | $10.00 | 0.02 | (0.25) | (0.23) | — | — | — | $9.77 | (2.30)% | 1.01%(4) | 0.55%(4) | 29% | $94,459 | ||
G Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $13.14 | 0.15 | 0.65 | 0.80 | (0.15) | (1.48) | (1.63) | $12.31 | 7.80% | 0.01%(5) | 1.24%(5) | 115% | $368,540 | ||
2018 | $11.41 | 0.15 | 2.10 | 2.25 | (0.14) | (0.38) | (0.52) | $13.14 | 19.98% | 0.07%(6) | 1.16%(6) | 105% | $430,102 | ||
2017 | $9.49 | 0.08 | 1.92 | 2.00 | (0.08) | — | (0.08) | $11.41 | 21.08% | 0.82% | 0.71% | 131% | $449,768 | ||
2016 | $9.78 | 0.08 | (0.28) | (0.20) | (0.09) | — | (0.09) | $9.49 | (2.03)% | 0.82% | 0.82% | 118% | $397,955 | ||
2015(3) | $10.00 | 0.02 | (0.24) | (0.22) | — | — | — | $9.78 | (2.20)% | 0.81%(4) | 0.75%(4) | 29% | $357,113 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
(3) | March 19, 2015 (fund inception) through June 30, 2015. |
(4) | Annualized. |
(5) | The ratio of operating expenses to average net assets before expense waiver and the ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets before expense waiver was 0.82% and 0.43%, respectively. |
(6) | The ratio of operating expenses to average net assets before expense waiver and the ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets before expense waiver was 0.81% and 0.42%, respectively. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of NT Disciplined Growth Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of NT Disciplined Growth Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
22
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
23
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
24
Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
25
Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
26
Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was below its benchmark for the one- and three-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
27
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was above the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer group. The Board and the Advisor agreed to a temporary reduction of the Fund's annual unified management fee of 0.01% (e.g., the Investor Class unified fee will be reduced from 1.00% to 0.99%) for at least one year, beginning August 1, 2019.The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to
28
the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
29
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
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Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for
the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $5,546,763, or up to the maximum amount
allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as
qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
The fund hereby designates $16,639,088 as qualified short-term capital gain distributions for purposes of Internal Revenue Code Section 871 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund hereby designates $40,611,469, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund utilized earnings and profits of $1,654,858 distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares as part of the dividends paid deduction (tax equalization).
31
Notes |
32
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-93000 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
NT Equity Growth Fund | |
G Class (ACLEX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
Performance | 2 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | |||||
Average Annual Returns | |||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Inception Date | |
G Class | ACLEX | 8.05% | 8.85% | 13.86% | 5/12/06 |
S&P 500 Index | — | 10.42% | 10.71% | 14.69% | — |
Fund returns would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
Growth of $10,000 Over 10 Years |
$10,000 investment made June 30, 2009 |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
G Class — $36,647 | |
S&P 500 Index — $39,416 | |
Ending value of G Class would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses |
G Class 0.46% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
2
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Claudia Musat and Steven Rossi
Performance Summary
NT Equity Growth returned 8.05%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, compared with the 10.42% return of its benchmark, the S&P 500 Index.
NT Equity Growth advanced during the fiscal year, but underperformed its benchmark, the S&P 500 Index. Security selection in the real estate, communication services and consumer staples sectors detracted the most from fund performance, while stock choices in information technology and financials were most additive.
Stock Choices Across Several Sectors Detracted from Relative Returns
Stock choices in real estate and communication services were the largest detractors from the fund’s 12-month results. Our security selection within equity real estate investment trusts provided a headwind for returns. The leading detractor was Weyerhaeuser, a timberland management company, which suffered along with industrial and agricultural commodity prices amid concerns about global growth and trade disputes. We have since exited the stock. Selection within real estate management and development companies also detracted.
Security decisions within communication services hurt relative results as well. Within the entertainment industry, video game producer Electronic Arts was one of the largest individual detractors from overall performance. The share price fell after the company announced it would delay the release of an anticipated game and reduced its full-year earnings guidance. In the diversified telecommunication services industry, Verizon Communications was also among the top individual detractors. Costs have increased for many wireless carriers due to the implementation of 5G technology.
Stock choices in the consumer staples sector also weighed on returns, particularly within the personal products and beverages industries. A position in personal product company Edgewell Personal Care provided one of the larger headwinds to results, as shares fell in response to an acquisition announcement. Elsewhere in the sector, it hurt relative performance to be underrepresented in shares of The Procter & Gamble Co. Other top individual detractors for the year included luxury goods company Tapestry and energy company Halliburton. We eliminated our position in Halliburton.
Information Technology and Financials Were Additive
Positioning within the information technology sector was the largest tailwind to relative returns during the period. Software company VMware was one of the largest individual contributors, as the cloud solutions provider reported strength across multiple business segments and products. The company maintains high factor scores for quality, valuation and growth. Stock selection within electronic equipment, instruments and components also helped results. A position in electronic instrument and testing manufacturer Keysight Technologies was also among the top individual contributors after reporting better-than-expected results. The stock price rose throughout the second half of the period, and the company maintains high scores for sentiment, quality and growth.
*Fund returns would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
3
Stock selection within the financials sector also bolstered performance. Positioning within the capital markets industry was beneficial, as it helped relative results to avoid several companies that lagged the broader market during the period. Selections within banks were also additive. Elsewhere in the markets, a position in outdoor clothing and footwear manufacturer Deckers Outdoor was among the top contributing stocks. The company beat earnings estimates and raised guidance several times throughout the period and maintains high scores across all four model factors. Automotive parts retailer AutoZone was also a top contributor for the 12 months and maintains high scores for sentiment and quality.
A Look Ahead
Our disciplined, objective and systematic investment strategy is designed to take advantage of opportunities at the individual company level. We believe this approach is the most powerful way to capitalize on market inefficiencies that lead to the mispricing of individual stocks. Our strategy is designed to provide investors with well-diversified and risk-managed exposure to broad U.S. equities. As such, we do not see significant deviations in sector weightings versus the S&P 500 Index. Nevertheless, we can point to select sectors and industries where we are finding more or less investment opportunity.
At period-end, information technology remains the largest sector in both absolute terms and relative to the benchmark. Software and communications equipment represent some of the most attractive industry groups we see. Consumer discretionary is also attractive, with textiles, apparel and luxury goods companies a significant overweight, followed by the internet and catalog retail industry group. Conversely, our utilities sector underweight position reflects a lack of opportunity in this area across most factors in the stock selection model, particularly within the electric utilities and multi-utilities industries. A relative lack of exposure to financials reflects the fact that we see a number of stocks in the capital markets and diversified financial services industries that do not score well across our models in the current environment.
4
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Holdings | % of net assets |
Microsoft Corp. | 4.4% |
Amazon.com, Inc. | 4.2% |
Apple, Inc. | 4.0% |
Alphabet, Inc., Class A | 3.4% |
Facebook, Inc., Class A | 2.7% |
JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 2.2% |
Visa, Inc., Class A | 2.0% |
Bank of America Corp. | 1.8% |
Chevron Corp. | 1.8% |
Verizon Communications, Inc. | 1.8% |
Top Five Industries | % of net assets |
Software | 8.7% |
Banks | 6.2% |
Interactive Media and Services | 6.1% |
Health Care Equipment and Supplies | 5.5% |
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail | 5.3% |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Common Stocks | 99.5% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 0.8% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | (0.3)% |
5
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
G Class | $1,000 | $1,186.30 | $0.05 | 0.01% |
Hypothetical | ||||
G Class | $1,000 | $1,024.74 | $0.05 | 0.01% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
6
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 99.5% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — 0.7% | ||||
Boeing Co. (The) | 1,948 | $ | 709,092 | |
Hexcel Corp. | 25,865 | 2,091,961 | ||
Raytheon Co. | 44,083 | 7,665,152 | ||
10,466,205 | ||||
Air Freight and Logistics — 0.9% | ||||
CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc. | 143,084 | 12,069,135 | ||
Banks — 6.2% | ||||
Bank of America Corp. | 901,350 | 26,139,150 | ||
Comerica, Inc. | 145,063 | 10,537,376 | ||
Fifth Third Bancorp | 114,649 | 3,198,707 | ||
JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 279,612 | 31,260,622 | ||
SunTrust Banks, Inc. | 136,910 | 8,604,794 | ||
Wells Fargo & Co. | 188,626 | 8,925,782 | ||
88,666,431 | ||||
Beverages — 2.5% | ||||
Coca-Cola Co. (The) | 318,576 | 16,221,890 | ||
PepsiCo, Inc. | 150,286 | 19,707,003 | ||
35,928,893 | ||||
Biotechnology — 2.6% | ||||
AbbVie, Inc. | 127,112 | 9,243,585 | ||
Amgen, Inc. | 56,254 | 10,366,487 | ||
Biogen, Inc.(1) | 25,867 | 6,049,515 | ||
Celgene Corp.(1) | 77,738 | 7,186,101 | ||
Gilead Sciences, Inc. | 19,123 | 1,291,950 | ||
Incyte Corp.(1) | 30,700 | 2,608,272 | ||
36,745,910 | ||||
Building Products — 1.0% | ||||
Johnson Controls International plc | 324,044 | 13,386,258 | ||
Masco Corp. | 27,405 | 1,075,372 | ||
14,461,630 | ||||
Capital Markets — 0.9% | ||||
Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc., Class A | 91,932 | 2,529,969 | ||
Evercore, Inc., Class A | 3,036 | 268,899 | ||
LPL Financial Holdings, Inc. | 112,723 | 9,194,815 | ||
TD Ameritrade Holding Corp. | 18,722 | 934,602 | ||
12,928,285 | ||||
Chemicals — 0.1% | ||||
CF Industries Holdings, Inc. | 23,438 | 1,094,789 | ||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 1.8% | ||||
Republic Services, Inc. | 138,684 | 12,015,582 |
7
Shares | Value | |||
Waste Management, Inc. | 114,249 | $ | 13,180,907 | |
25,196,489 | ||||
Communications Equipment — 2.7% | ||||
Cisco Systems, Inc. | 454,464 | 24,872,815 | ||
Juniper Networks, Inc. | 131,972 | 3,514,414 | ||
Motorola Solutions, Inc. | 62,942 | 10,494,320 | ||
38,881,549 | ||||
Consumer Finance — 1.8% | ||||
Discover Financial Services | 180,332 | 13,991,960 | ||
Synchrony Financial | 340,936 | 11,820,251 | ||
25,812,211 | ||||
Containers and Packaging — 0.8% | ||||
Packaging Corp. of America | 112,978 | 10,769,063 | ||
Diversified Financial Services — 0.9% | ||||
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B(1) | 58,937 | 12,563,600 | ||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 1.9% | ||||
AT&T, Inc. | 69,058 | 2,314,134 | ||
Verizon Communications, Inc. | 441,558 | 25,226,208 | ||
27,540,342 | ||||
Electric Utilities — 0.1% | ||||
Exelon Corp. | 38,693 | 1,854,942 | ||
Electrical Equipment — 0.4% | ||||
Rockwell Automation, Inc. | 37,370 | 6,122,327 | ||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 1.3% | ||||
CDW Corp. | 41,928 | 4,654,008 | ||
FLIR Systems, Inc. | 13,467 | 728,565 | ||
Keysight Technologies, Inc.(1) | 128,920 | 11,578,305 | ||
National Instruments Corp. | 20,009 | 840,178 | ||
17,801,056 | ||||
Entertainment — 2.3% | ||||
Activision Blizzard, Inc. | 268,891 | 12,691,655 | ||
Electronic Arts, Inc.(1) | 133,247 | 13,492,591 | ||
Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.(1) | 31,498 | 3,575,968 | ||
Walt Disney Co. (The) | 21,153 | 2,953,805 | ||
32,714,019 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 1.8% | ||||
Brixmor Property Group, Inc. | 87,066 | 1,556,740 | ||
CareTrust REIT, Inc. | 30,604 | 727,763 | ||
GEO Group, Inc. (The) | 297,610 | 6,252,786 | ||
Healthcare Trust of America, Inc., Class A | 378,058 | 10,370,131 | ||
Life Storage, Inc. | 68,052 | 6,470,384 | ||
25,377,804 | ||||
Food Products — 2.2% | ||||
Campbell Soup Co. | 113,950 | 4,565,976 | ||
General Mills, Inc. | 236,426 | 12,417,094 | ||
Hershey Co. (The) | 103,145 | 13,824,524 | ||
30,807,594 |
8
Shares | Value | |||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 5.5% | ||||
Danaher Corp. | 132,591 | $ | 18,949,906 | |
DexCom, Inc.(1) | 29,269 | 4,385,667 | ||
Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. | 68,168 | 7,131,736 | ||
Hologic, Inc.(1) | 67,588 | 3,245,576 | ||
Integer Holdings Corp.(1) | 56,505 | 4,741,900 | ||
Medtronic plc | 208,850 | 20,339,901 | ||
NuVasive, Inc.(1) | 30,089 | 1,761,410 | ||
STERIS plc(1) | 22,715 | 3,381,809 | ||
Stryker Corp. | 67,475 | 13,871,510 | ||
77,809,415 | ||||
Health Care Providers and Services — 0.7% | ||||
Amedisys, Inc.(1) | 42,170 | 5,119,860 | ||
Encompass Health Corp. | 7,802 | 494,335 | ||
HealthEquity, Inc.(1) | 15,375 | 1,005,525 | ||
UnitedHealth Group, Inc. | 14,112 | 3,443,469 | ||
10,063,189 | ||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 2.5% | ||||
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.(1) | 7,769 | 5,693,745 | ||
Darden Restaurants, Inc. | 108,117 | 13,161,082 | ||
Starbucks Corp. | 189,049 | 15,847,978 | ||
34,702,805 | ||||
Household Durables — 0.2% | ||||
Newell Brands, Inc. | 206,806 | 3,188,949 | ||
Household Products — 0.9% | ||||
Colgate-Palmolive Co. | 109,679 | 7,860,694 | ||
Procter & Gamble Co. (The) | 49,888 | 5,470,219 | ||
13,330,913 | ||||
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers — 0.3% | ||||
NRG Energy, Inc. | 127,125 | 4,464,630 | ||
Insurance — 1.2% | ||||
Mercury General Corp. | 43,476 | 2,717,250 | ||
Progressive Corp. (The) | 174,520 | 13,949,384 | ||
16,666,634 | ||||
Interactive Media and Services — 6.1% | ||||
Alphabet, Inc., Class A(1) | 45,497 | 49,264,152 | ||
Facebook, Inc., Class A(1) | 196,601 | 37,943,993 | ||
87,208,145 | ||||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 5.3% | ||||
Amazon.com, Inc.(1) | 31,160 | 59,005,511 | ||
eBay, Inc. | 399,948 | 15,797,946 | ||
74,803,457 | ||||
IT Services — 4.9% | ||||
Akamai Technologies, Inc.(1) | 159,552 | 12,786,497 | ||
EVERTEC, Inc. | 62,260 | 2,035,902 | ||
Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 51,642 | 13,660,858 | ||
PayPal Holdings, Inc.(1) | 109,666 | 12,552,370 |
9
Shares | Value | |||
Visa, Inc., Class A | 167,721 | $ | 29,107,980 | |
70,143,607 | ||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 3.2% | ||||
Agilent Technologies, Inc. | 148,400 | 11,081,028 | ||
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Class A(1) | 11,642 | 3,639,173 | ||
Illumina, Inc.(1) | 27,273 | 10,040,555 | ||
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. | 71,202 | 20,910,603 | ||
45,671,359 | ||||
Machinery — 1.9% | ||||
Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. | 178,016 | 8,251,042 | ||
Cummins, Inc. | 59,261 | 10,153,780 | ||
Snap-on, Inc. | 53,665 | 8,889,070 | ||
27,293,892 | ||||
Metals and Mining — 0.8% | ||||
Steel Dynamics, Inc. | 367,615 | 11,101,973 | ||
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 0.1% | ||||
Starwood Property Trust, Inc. | 84,021 | 1,908,957 | ||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 4.8% | ||||
Chevron Corp. | 203,431 | 25,314,954 | ||
ConocoPhillips | 16,275 | 992,775 | ||
CVR Energy, Inc. | 187,395 | 9,367,876 | ||
Delek US Holdings, Inc. | 59,121 | 2,395,583 | ||
Exxon Mobil Corp. | 96,644 | 7,405,830 | ||
HollyFrontier Corp. | 130,646 | 6,046,297 | ||
Occidental Petroleum Corp. | 39,491 | 1,985,607 | ||
Phillips 66 | 149,510 | 13,985,165 | ||
67,494,087 | ||||
Paper and Forest Products — 0.7% | ||||
Domtar Corp. | 217,679 | 9,693,246 | ||
Personal Products — 0.4% | ||||
Edgewell Personal Care Co.(1) | 57,747 | 1,556,282 | ||
Herbalife Nutrition Ltd.(1) | 78,364 | 3,350,844 | ||
4,907,126 | ||||
Pharmaceuticals — 4.3% | ||||
Allergan plc | 42,367 | 7,093,507 | ||
Eli Lilly & Co. | 22,545 | 2,497,760 | ||
Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc(1) | 25,286 | 3,604,772 | ||
Johnson & Johnson | 161,245 | 22,458,204 | ||
Merck & Co., Inc. | 107,976 | 9,053,788 | ||
Pfizer, Inc. | 238,850 | 10,346,982 | ||
Zoetis, Inc. | 58,427 | 6,630,880 | ||
61,685,893 | ||||
Professional Services — 1.3% | ||||
CoStar Group, Inc.(1) | 21,690 | 12,017,562 | ||
Korn Ferry | 17,414 | 697,779 | ||
Robert Half International, Inc. | 107,633 | 6,136,157 | ||
18,851,498 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
Real Estate Management and Development — 0.1% | ||||
Jones Lang LaSalle, Inc. | 11,412 | $ | 1,605,554 | |
Road and Rail — 0.9% | ||||
CSX Corp. | 163,904 | 12,681,252 | ||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 2.9% | ||||
Broadcom, Inc. | 62,359 | 17,950,662 | ||
Intel Corp. | 261,154 | 12,501,442 | ||
QUALCOMM, Inc. | 69,270 | 5,269,369 | ||
Xilinx, Inc. | 46,631 | 5,498,727 | ||
41,220,200 | ||||
Software — 8.7% | ||||
Adobe, Inc.(1) | 68,864 | 20,290,778 | ||
Intuit, Inc. | 62,940 | 16,448,110 | ||
LogMeIn, Inc. | 18,331 | 1,350,628 | ||
Microsoft Corp. | 465,273 | 62,327,971 | ||
Oracle Corp. (New York) | 250,242 | 14,256,287 | ||
VMware, Inc., Class A(1) | 56,549 | 9,455,558 | ||
124,129,332 | ||||
Specialty Retail — 2.4% | ||||
AutoZone, Inc.(1) | 11,252 | 12,371,237 | ||
Murphy USA, Inc.(1) | 32,302 | 2,714,337 | ||
O'Reilly Automotive, Inc.(1) | 34,500 | 12,741,540 | ||
Ross Stores, Inc. | 61,102 | 6,056,430 | ||
33,883,544 | ||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals — 4.0% | ||||
Apple, Inc. | 283,190 | 56,048,965 | ||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 2.1% | ||||
Deckers Outdoor Corp.(1) | 66,131 | 11,637,072 | ||
NIKE, Inc., Class B | 193,591 | 16,251,964 | ||
Tapestry, Inc. | 70,341 | 2,231,920 | ||
30,120,956 | ||||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — 0.3% | ||||
Essent Group Ltd.(1) | 93,407 | 4,389,195 | ||
Transportation Infrastructure — 0.1% | ||||
Macquarie Infrastructure Corp. | 27,109 | 1,098,999 | ||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $1,055,789,732) | 1,413,970,046 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 0.8% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $9,948,330), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $9,769,429) | 9,767,597 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.375%, 7/15/27, valued at $1,895,274), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $1,854,193) | 1,854,000 |
11
Shares | Value | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 17,308 | $ | 17,308 | |
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $11,638,905) | 11,638,905 | |||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES — 100.3% (Cost $1,067,428,637) | 1,425,608,951 | |||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — (0.3)% | (4,246,166 | ) | ||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 1,421,362,785 |
FUTURES CONTRACTS PURCHASED | |||||||||||
Reference Entity | Contracts | Expiration Date | Notional Amount | Underlying Contract Value | Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) | ||||||
S&P 500 E-Mini | 67 | September 2019 | $ | 3,350 | $ | 9,863,070 | $ | 164,883 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
12
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $1,067,428,637) | $ | 1,425,608,951 | |
Deposits with broker for futures contracts | 422,100 | ||
Receivable for capital shares sold | 14,381 | ||
Receivable for variation margin on futures contracts | 251,864 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 1,030,361 | ||
1,427,327,657 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 2,174 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 5,962,698 | ||
5,964,872 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 1,421,362,785 | |
G Class Capital Shares, $0.01 Par Value | |||
Shares authorized | 985,000,000 | ||
Shares outstanding | 108,550,505 | ||
Net Asset Value Per Share | $ | 13.09 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 1,019,729,433 | |
Distributable earnings | 401,633,352 | ||
$ | 1,421,362,785 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
13
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends | $ | 28,343,660 | |
Interest | 414,987 | ||
28,758,647 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Management fees | 6,978,398 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 107,514 | ||
Other expenses | 10,506 | ||
7,096,418 | |||
Fees waived | (6,978,398 | ) | |
118,020 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 28,640,627 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | 100,039,632 | ||
Futures contract transactions | 2,688,009 | ||
102,727,641 | |||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments | (17,465,449 | ) | |
Futures contracts | 164,883 | ||
(17,300,566 | ) | ||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 85,427,075 | ||
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | 114,067,702 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
14
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 28,640,627 | $ | 33,983,049 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | 102,727,641 | 164,821,845 | ||||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (17,300,566 | ) | 71,664,277 | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 114,067,702 | 270,469,171 | ||||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings(1) | (194,396,133 | ) | (132,600,513 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Proceeds from shares sold | 133,221,176 | 80,237,665 | ||||
Proceeds from reinvestment of distributions | 194,396,133 | 132,600,513 | ||||
Payments for shares redeemed | (498,765,868 | ) | (449,428,027 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions | (171,148,559 | ) | (236,589,849 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (251,476,990 | ) | (98,721,191 | ) | ||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 1,672,839,775 | 1,771,560,966 | ||||
End of period | $ | 1,421,362,785 | $ | 1,672,839,775 | ||
Transactions in Shares of the Fund | ||||||
Sold | 10,292,977 | 5,859,218 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 16,453,755 | 9,709,545 | ||||
Redeemed | (37,479,042 | ) | (32,236,842 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in shares of the fund | (10,732,310 | ) | (16,668,079 | ) |
(1) | Prior period presentation has been updated to reflect the current period combination of distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains. Distributions from net investment income were $(32,706,722). Distributions from net realized gains were $(99,893,791). |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
15
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. NT Equity Growth Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital growth. The fund is not permitted to invest in securities issued by companies assigned the Global Industry Classification Standard or the Bloomberg Industry Classification Standard for the tobacco industry. The fund offers the G Class.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. Exchange-traded futures contracts are valued at the settlement price as provided by the appropriate exchange.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
16
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Segregated Assets — In accordance with the 1940 Act, the fund segregates assets on its books and records to cover certain types of investment securities and other financial instruments. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities segregated to ensure the fund designates a sufficient amount of liquid assets, marked-to-market daily. The fund may also receive assets or be required to pledge assets at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid quarterly. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually. The fund may elect to treat a portion of its payment to a redeeming shareholder, which represents the pro rata share of undistributed net investment income and net realized gains, as a distribution for federal income tax purposes (tax equalization).
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc., and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC. Various funds issued by American Century Asset Allocation Portfolios, Inc. own, in aggregate, 100% of the shares of the fund. Related parties do not invest in the fund for the purpose of exercising management or control.
17
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee). The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on the daily net assets of the fund and paid monthly in arrears. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds. The rates for the Investment Category Fee range from 0.3380% to 0.5200%. The rates for the Complex Fee range from 0.0500% to 0.1100%. The investment advisor agreed to waive the fund's management fee in its entirety. The investment advisor expects this waiver to remain in effect permanently and cannot terminate it without the approval of the Board of Directors. The effective annual management fee for the period ended June 30, 2019 was 0.46% before waiver and 0.00% after waiver.
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $25,485,280 and $16,042,926, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $208,242 in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $1,255,435,007 and $1,575,384,291, respectively.
5. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
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The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 1,413,970,046 | — | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 17,308 | $ | 11,621,597 | — | ||||
$ | 1,413,987,354 | $ | 11,621,597 | — | ||||
Other Financial Instruments | ||||||||
Futures Contracts | $ | 164,883 | — | — |
6. Risk Factors
The fund is owned by a relatively small number of shareholders, and in the event such shareholders redeem, the ongoing operations of the fund may be at risk.
7. Derivative Instruments
Equity Price Risk — The fund is subject to equity price risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. A fund may enter into futures contracts based on an equity index in order to manage its exposure to changes in market conditions. A fund may purchase futures contracts to gain exposure to increases in market value or sell futures contracts to protect against a decline in market value. Upon entering into a futures contract, a fund is required to deposit either cash or securities in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract value (initial margin). Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received daily, in cash, by a fund. The variation margin is equal to the daily change in the contract value and is recorded as unrealized gains and losses. A fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when the contract is closed or expires. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of futures contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts, respectively. One of the risks of entering into futures contracts is the possibility that the change in value of the contract may not correlate with the changes in value of the underlying securities. The fund's average notional exposure to equity price risk derivative instruments held during the period was $7,650 futures contracts purchased.
The value of equity price risk derivative instruments as of June 30, 2019, is disclosed on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an asset of $251,864 in receivable for variation margin on futures contracts*. For the year ended June 30, 2019, the effect of equity price risk derivative instruments on the Statement of Operations was $2,688,009 in net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and $164,883 in change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts.
* Included in the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments.
8. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 68,693,242 | $ | 45,641,004 | ||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 125,702,891 | $ | 86,959,509 |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
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As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 1,072,382,745 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 366,438,223 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (13,212,017 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | $ | 353,226,206 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | — | ||
Accumulated long-term gains | $ | 66,614,001 | |
Post-October capital loss deferral | $ | (18,206,855 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
Loss deferrals represent certain qualified losses that the fund has elected to treat as having been incurred in the following fiscal year for federal income tax purposes.
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Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (before expense waiver) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Net Investment Income (Loss) (before expense waiver) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
G Class | |||||||||||||||||
2019 | $14.02 | 0.25 | 0.64 | 0.89 | (0.24) | (1.58) | (1.82) | $13.09 | 8.05% | 0.01% | 0.47% | 1.89% | 1.43% | 84% | $1,421,363 | ||
2018 | $13.03 | 0.27 | 1.79 | 2.06 | (0.26) | (0.81) | (1.07) | $14.02 | 16.11% | 0.04% | 0.46% | 1.93% | 1.51% | 83% | $1,672,840 | ||
2017 | $11.20 | 0.19 | 1.83 | 2.02 | (0.19) | — | (0.19) | $13.03 | 18.09% | 0.47% | 0.47% | 1.54% | 1.54% | 88% | $1,771,561 | ||
2016 | $12.30 | 0.19 | (0.53) | (0.34) | (0.19) | (0.57) | (0.76) | $11.20 | (2.65)% | 0.47% | 0.47% | 1.65% | 1.65% | 94% | $1,563,685 | ||
2015 | $13.04 | 0.21 | 0.53 | 0.74 | (0.20) | (1.28) | (1.48) | $12.30 | 5.97% | 0.47% | 0.47% | 1.66% | 1.66% | 84% | $1,381,049 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of NT Equity Growth Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of NT Equity Growth Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
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Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
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Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
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Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
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Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
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Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was below its benchmark for the one-, three-, five-, and ten-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
27
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer group. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
28
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
29
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
30
Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $25,325,957, or up to the maximum amount allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
The fund hereby designates $41,303,583 as qualified short-term capital gain distributions for purposes of Internal Revenue Code Section 871 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund hereby designates $131,788,988, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund utilized earnings and profits of $7,085,925 distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares as part of the dividends paid deduction (tax equalization).
31
Notes |
32
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
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American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92997 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
NT Small Company Fund | |
G Class (ACLOX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
Performance | 2 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | |||||
Average Annual Returns | |||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Inception Date | |
G Class | ACLOX | -6.96% | 4.45% | 12.79% | 5/12/06 |
Russell 2000 Index | — | -3.31% | 7.06% | 13.44% | — |
Fund returns would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
Growth of $10,000 Over 10 Years |
$10,000 investment made June 30, 2009 |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
G Class — $33,357 | |
Russell 2000 Index — $35,313 | |
Ending value of G Class would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | |
G Class | 0.66% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
2
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Brian Garbe and Steven Rossi
Performance Summary
NT Small Company returned -6.96%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, compared with the -3.31% return of its benchmark, the Russell 2000 Index.
NT Small Company fell during the fiscal year and trailed the return of its benchmark, the Russell 2000 Index. Stock choices in the consumer discretionary and communication services sectors detracted most from performance, while selections in the health care and energy sectors benefited fund results.
Stock Choices Across Several Sectors Detracted from Relative Returns
Stock choices were the largest driver of the fund’s 12-month results. Picks in the consumer discretionary sector detracted most from performance, primarily within the specialty retail and hotels, restaurants and leisure industries. A position in Tailored Brands, a clothing retailer, was among the top individual detractors. The stock slid throughout the second half of the period after management issued lower-than-expected earnings guidance. We have since exited the stock. BJ’s Restaurants also weighed on results and was among the top detractors from overall performance. Positioning in the household durables and leisure products industries also provided a headwind.
Stock selection within communication services also negatively affected the portfolio, particularly within the media industry. Within interactive media and services, a position in Care.com was among the largest individual detractor. The caretaker procurement website has been under pressure due to negative press and critique of its caregiver vetting process. The share price fell throughout the last several months of the period. Positioning within the entertainment and wireless telecommunication services industries also detracted from relative returns.
Within the utilities sector, positioning within the electric, gas, water and multi-utilities industries detracted. Elsewhere among notable individual stocks, a position in Denbury Resources was also a leading detractor. The price of the energy company fell precipitously in October on oil price volatility and investor concern over its announcement to acquire Penn Virginia. We have closed the position. Natural and organic food product distributor United Natural Foods also provided a headwind to results. The stock declined throughout much of the first six months of the period after it announced its purchase of food distributor Supervalu. We no longer hold the stock.
Health Care and Energy Were Additive
In health care, stock choices within the life sciences tools and services, health care providers and services, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals industries were the largest drivers of positive returns. In life sciences tools and services, a position in Medpace Holdings was among the best performing stocks for the period. The research company maintains high scores for quality and value. Health care service provider The Ensign Group was also a top individual contributor to results. The stock rose throughout the latter half of the period and maintains high scores for quality and growth.
* Fund returns would have been lower if a portion of the fees had not been waived.
3
Stock selection within the energy sector also helped relative results. Choices within the oil, gas and consumable fuels industry benefited performance, such as CVR Energy and NACCO Industries. Selections within energy equipment and services also helped. Among other notable individual contributors, Lattice Semiconductor was a top-performing stock. The price rose throughout the second half of the period after beating expectations and raising guidance. The company earns positive scores for growth, quality and sentiment. Outdoor apparel and shoe company Deckers Outdoor was also a leading driver of performance. The stock rose over the period on the back of several earnings beats and guidance increases. Deckers Outdoor scores well on our quality, sentiment and growth factors.
Portfolio Positioning
Our disciplined, objective and systematic investment strategy is designed to take advantage of opportunities at the individual company level. We believe this approach is the most powerful way to capitalize on market inefficiencies that lead to the mispricing of individual stocks. As a result, our sector weights reflect where we are finding opportunities at a given time.
At period-end, the portfolio’s largest relative overweights were in the industrials and information technology sectors. In industrials, we find attractive investment opportunities within the road and rail and professional services industries. In information technology, our models indicate opportunity in the software and semiconductors and semiconductor equipment industries. Conversely, we reduced our exposure to materials stocks during the period. The sector is now among the largest relative underweight positions. We feel there is a comparative lack of opportunity in the sector, particularly within the chemicals industry. The utilities sector also shows a lack of opportunity and was also a significant relative underweight at period-end.
4
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Holdings | % of net assets |
Tetra Tech, Inc. | 0.9% |
EMCOR Group, Inc. | 0.9% |
Essent Group Ltd. | 0.9% |
Haemonetics Corp. | 0.9% |
Herman Miller, Inc. | 0.9% |
Radian Group, Inc. | 0.9% |
Ensign Group, Inc. (The) | 0.8% |
Tech Data Corp. | 0.8% |
Lattice Semiconductor Corp. | 0.8% |
Integer Holdings Corp. | 0.8% |
Top Five Industries | % of net assets |
Banks | 7.6% |
Software | 6.9% |
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) | 5.6% |
Biotechnology | 5.3% |
Specialty Retail | 4.6% |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Common Stocks | 100.6% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 0.9% |
Temporary Cash Investments - Securities Lending Collateral | 1.1% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | (2.6)% |
5
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
G Class | $1,000 | $1,138.60 | $0.05 | 0.01% |
Hypothetical | ||||
G Class | $1,000 | $1,024.74 | $0.05 | 0.01% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
6
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 100.6% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — 1.0% | ||||
Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc.(1) | 14,088 | $ | 630,720 | |
Curtiss-Wright Corp. | 18,236 | 2,318,343 | ||
Ducommun, Inc.(1) | 6,711 | 302,465 | ||
Vectrus, Inc.(1) | 19,374 | 785,809 | ||
4,037,337 | ||||
Air Freight and Logistics — 0.3% | ||||
Hub Group, Inc., Class A(1) | 25,579 | 1,073,806 | ||
Banks — 7.6% | ||||
Bancorp, Inc. (The)(1) | 213,024 | 1,900,174 | ||
Bank of NT Butterfield & Son Ltd. (The) | 72,641 | 2,466,888 | ||
Banner Corp. | 43,251 | 2,342,042 | ||
Boston Private Financial Holdings, Inc. | 52,586 | 634,713 | ||
Bryn Mawr Bank Corp. | 740 | 27,617 | ||
Camden National Corp. | 7,962 | 365,217 | ||
Central Pacific Financial Corp. | 84,060 | 2,518,437 | ||
Chemical Financial Corp. | 12,265 | 504,214 | ||
Enterprise Financial Services Corp. | 43,965 | 1,828,944 | ||
Financial Institutions, Inc. | 40,326 | 1,175,503 | ||
First Citizens BancShares, Inc., Class A | 4,715 | 2,123,023 | ||
First Commonwealth Financial Corp. | 31,616 | 425,867 | ||
First Financial Corp. | 1,710 | 68,674 | ||
First Merchants Corp. | 65,538 | 2,483,890 | ||
IBERIABANK Corp. | 7,961 | 603,842 | ||
Independent Bank Corp. | 80,856 | 1,761,852 | ||
International Bancshares Corp. | 69,194 | 2,609,306 | ||
Lakeland Bancorp, Inc. | 17,197 | 277,731 | ||
OFG Bancorp | 52,545 | 1,248,995 | ||
Renasant Corp. | 24,519 | 881,213 | ||
United Community Banks, Inc. | 103,423 | 2,953,761 | ||
WesBanco, Inc. | 10,714 | 413,025 | ||
29,614,928 | ||||
Beverages — 0.6% | ||||
Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. | 7,326 | 2,192,306 | ||
Biotechnology — 5.3% | ||||
Aduro Biotech, Inc.(1) | 31,302 | 48,205 | ||
Akcea Therapeutics, Inc.(1)(2) | 10,235 | 240,011 | ||
AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 12,652 | 126,393 | ||
Anika Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 21,595 | 877,189 | ||
Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 22,422 | 1,314,602 | ||
Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1)(2) | 58,889 | 1,560,558 | ||
BioSpecifics Technologies Corp.(1) | 12,280 | 733,239 |
7
Shares | Value | |||
CareDx, Inc.(1) | 33,042 | $ | 1,189,182 | |
Denali Therapeutics, Inc.(1)(2) | 9,087 | 188,646 | ||
Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 59,976 | 944,622 | ||
Eagle Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 15,631 | 870,334 | ||
Esperion Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 19,673 | 915,188 | ||
Exelixis, Inc.(1) | 39,418 | 842,363 | ||
Genomic Health, Inc.(1) | 18,250 | 1,061,603 | ||
Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 80,225 | 1,378,265 | ||
Intrexon Corp.(1)(2) | 14,853 | 113,774 | ||
Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 96,264 | 1,053,128 | ||
Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 7,496 | 855,668 | ||
Myriad Genetics, Inc.(1) | 46,372 | 1,288,214 | ||
Natera, Inc.(1) | 28,529 | 786,830 | ||
Pieris Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 216,056 | 1,015,463 | ||
Prothena Corp. plc(1) | 88,161 | 931,862 | ||
Puma Biotechnology, Inc.(1) | 34,083 | 433,195 | ||
Veracyte, Inc.(1) | 32,757 | 933,902 | ||
Voyager Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 40,687 | 1,107,500 | ||
20,809,936 | ||||
Capital Markets — 1.8% | ||||
Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc., Class A | 43,200 | 1,188,864 | ||
Blucora, Inc.(1) | 67,343 | 2,045,207 | ||
Diamond Hill Investment Group, Inc. | 1,069 | 151,499 | ||
Piper Jaffray Cos. | 28,322 | 2,103,475 | ||
Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc., Class A | 78,131 | 1,302,444 | ||
Westwood Holdings Group, Inc. | 10,838 | 381,497 | ||
7,172,986 | ||||
Chemicals — 0.5% | ||||
FutureFuel Corp. | 15,737 | 183,965 | ||
Hawkins, Inc. | 2,067 | 89,728 | ||
Innophos Holdings, Inc. | 12,834 | 373,598 | ||
Kraton Corp.(1) | 31,010 | 963,481 | ||
Tredegar Corp. | 21,240 | 353,009 | ||
1,963,781 | ||||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 4.0% | ||||
Cimpress NV(1) | 26,047 | 2,367,412 | ||
Herman Miller, Inc. | 74,918 | 3,348,834 | ||
Kimball International, Inc., Class B | 8,450 | 147,283 | ||
Knoll, Inc. | 116,351 | 2,673,746 | ||
McGrath RentCorp | 12,886 | 800,865 | ||
Steelcase, Inc., Class A | 147,166 | 2,516,539 | ||
Tetra Tech, Inc. | 46,111 | 3,622,019 | ||
15,476,698 | ||||
Communications Equipment — 1.9% | ||||
Acacia Communications, Inc.(1) | 46,253 | 2,181,291 | ||
Ciena Corp.(1) | 57,379 | 2,359,998 | ||
Comtech Telecommunications Corp. | 11,415 | 320,876 |
8
Shares | Value | |||
Plantronics, Inc. | 34,292 | $ | 1,270,176 | |
Viavi Solutions, Inc.(1) | 93,077 | 1,236,993 | ||
7,369,334 | ||||
Construction and Engineering — 2.5% | ||||
Comfort Systems USA, Inc. | 49,833 | 2,540,984 | ||
EMCOR Group, Inc. | 40,957 | 3,608,312 | ||
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corp.(1) | 96,594 | 1,066,398 | ||
MasTec, Inc.(1) | 46,398 | 2,390,889 | ||
9,606,583 | ||||
Construction Materials — 0.1% | ||||
US Concrete, Inc.(1) | 10,783 | 535,807 | ||
Consumer Finance — 1.5% | ||||
Curo Group Holdings Corp.(1) | 50,080 | 553,384 | ||
Enova International, Inc.(1) | 105,814 | 2,439,013 | ||
Green Dot Corp., Class A(1) | 44,554 | 2,178,691 | ||
World Acceptance Corp.(1) | 2,905 | 476,739 | ||
5,647,827 | ||||
Distributors — 0.7% | ||||
Core-Mark Holding Co., Inc. | 71,713 | 2,848,440 | ||
Diversified Consumer Services — 1.1% | ||||
American Public Education, Inc.(1) | 30,230 | 894,203 | ||
Career Education Corp.(1) | 30,180 | 575,533 | ||
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Co.(1) | 95,737 | 551,445 | ||
K12, Inc.(1) | 73,649 | 2,239,666 | ||
4,260,847 | ||||
Diversified Financial Services — 0.3% | ||||
On Deck Capital, Inc.(1) | 245,141 | 1,017,335 | ||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.7% | ||||
Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc.(2) | 407,416 | 2,008,561 | ||
Liberty Latin America Ltd., Class C(1) | 23,067 | 396,522 | ||
Ooma, Inc.(1) | 13,288 | 139,258 | ||
2,544,341 | ||||
Electric Utilities — 1.0% | ||||
ALLETE, Inc. | 13,882 | 1,155,121 | ||
Otter Tail Corp. | 39,710 | 2,097,085 | ||
PNM Resources, Inc. | 15,753 | 801,986 | ||
4,054,192 | ||||
Electrical Equipment — 2.7% | ||||
Allied Motion Technologies, Inc. | 2,249 | 85,237 | ||
Atkore International Group, Inc.(1) | 106,696 | 2,760,226 | ||
AZZ, Inc. | 52,873 | 2,433,215 | ||
Encore Wire Corp. | 39,117 | 2,291,474 | ||
Generac Holdings, Inc.(1) | 41,020 | 2,847,198 | ||
10,417,350 | ||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 2.5% | ||||
Insight Enterprises, Inc.(1) | 42,617 | 2,480,309 | ||
PC Connection, Inc. | 22,595 | 790,373 |
9
Shares | Value | |||
Sanmina Corp.(1) | 18,917 | $ | 572,807 | |
ScanSource, Inc.(1) | 14,368 | 467,822 | ||
Tech Data Corp.(1) | 31,028 | 3,245,529 | ||
Vishay Precision Group, Inc.(1) | 53,610 | 2,178,174 | ||
9,735,014 | ||||
Energy Equipment and Services — 1.9% | ||||
Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc.(1) | 319,968 | 2,761,324 | ||
Matrix Service Co.(1) | 105,663 | 2,140,732 | ||
ProPetro Holding Corp.(1) | 23,303 | 482,372 | ||
SEACOR Holdings, Inc.(1) | 46,468 | 2,207,695 | ||
7,592,123 | ||||
Entertainment — 0.9% | ||||
Glu Mobile, Inc.(1) | 282,974 | 2,031,753 | ||
IMAX Corp.(1) | 63,205 | 1,276,741 | ||
Rosetta Stone, Inc.(1) | 6,419 | 146,867 | ||
3,455,361 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 5.6% | ||||
American Assets Trust, Inc. | 53,589 | 2,525,114 | ||
Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. | 8,620 | 101,285 | ||
CareTrust REIT, Inc. | 114,135 | 2,714,130 | ||
CoreCivic, Inc. | 42,555 | 883,442 | ||
Cousins Properties, Inc. | 25,844 | 934,778 | ||
GEO Group, Inc. (The) | 125,851 | 2,644,130 | ||
Industrial Logistics Properties Trust | 65,077 | 1,354,903 | ||
Lexington Realty Trust | 57,263 | 538,845 | ||
LTC Properties, Inc. | 9,360 | 427,378 | ||
Mack-Cali Realty Corp. | 29,874 | 695,765 | ||
New Senior Investment Group, Inc. | 133,770 | 898,934 | ||
PS Business Parks, Inc. | 15,814 | 2,665,133 | ||
RLJ Lodging Trust | 155,193 | 2,753,124 | ||
Saul Centers, Inc. | 4,761 | 267,235 | ||
Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc. | 33,562 | 460,135 | ||
Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc.(2) | 130,258 | 2,111,482 | ||
21,975,813 | ||||
Food and Staples Retailing† | ||||
Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc.(1) | 12,658 | 127,213 | ||
Food Products — 0.2% | ||||
Lancaster Colony Corp. | 5,160 | 766,776 | ||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 4.0% | ||||
AngioDynamics, Inc.(1) | 75,656 | 1,489,667 | ||
Atrion Corp. | 253 | 215,743 | ||
CONMED Corp. | 19,774 | 1,692,061 | ||
Haemonetics Corp.(1) | 28,596 | 3,441,243 | ||
Integer Holdings Corp.(1) | 35,439 | 2,974,041 | ||
Meridian Bioscience, Inc. | 15,498 | 184,116 | ||
OraSure Technologies, Inc.(1) | 110,227 | 1,022,907 | ||
Orthofix Medical, Inc.(1) | 13,260 | 701,189 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
Quidel Corp.(1) | 8,539 | $ | 506,533 | |
STAAR Surgical Co.(1) | 61,179 | 1,797,439 | ||
Surmodics, Inc.(1) | 39,414 | 1,701,502 | ||
15,726,441 | ||||
Health Care Providers and Services — 2.7% | ||||
Amedisys, Inc.(1) | 21,943 | 2,664,099 | ||
Brookdale Senior Living, Inc.(1) | 207,266 | 1,494,388 | ||
CorVel Corp.(1) | 15,201 | 1,322,639 | ||
Ensign Group, Inc. (The) | 58,025 | 3,302,783 | ||
National HealthCare Corp. | 22,199 | 1,801,449 | ||
10,585,358 | ||||
Health Care Technology — 1.5% | ||||
Computer Programs & Systems, Inc. | 66,225 | 1,840,393 | ||
HealthStream, Inc.(1) | 82,071 | 2,122,356 | ||
Inovalon Holdings, Inc., Class A(1)(2) | 24,788 | 359,674 | ||
Omnicell, Inc.(1) | 18,054 | 1,553,185 | ||
5,875,608 | ||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 2.9% | ||||
BJ's Restaurants, Inc. | 44,478 | 1,954,363 | ||
Bloomin' Brands, Inc. | 77,895 | 1,472,995 | ||
Boyd Gaming Corp. | 47,104 | 1,268,982 | ||
Cheesecake Factory, Inc. (The)(2) | 50,768 | 2,219,577 | ||
Dave & Buster's Entertainment, Inc. | 41,343 | 1,673,151 | ||
Jack in the Box, Inc. | 6,400 | 520,896 | ||
Ruth's Hospitality Group, Inc. | 90,118 | 2,046,580 | ||
11,156,544 | ||||
Household Durables — 0.1% | ||||
Skyline Champion Corp.(1) | 3,295 | 90,217 | ||
Universal Electronics, Inc.(1) | 6,473 | 265,523 | ||
355,740 | ||||
Insurance — 2.0% | ||||
Argo Group International Holdings Ltd. | 31,022 | 2,297,179 | ||
FBL Financial Group, Inc., Class A | 1,219 | 77,772 | ||
Heritage Insurance Holdings, Inc. | 12,576 | 193,796 | ||
Horace Mann Educators Corp. | 9,536 | 384,206 | ||
James River Group Holdings Ltd. | 12,646 | 593,098 | ||
National General Holdings Corp. | 80,696 | 1,851,166 | ||
National Western Life Group, Inc., Class A | 1,319 | 338,983 | ||
Safety Insurance Group, Inc. | 5,823 | 553,942 | ||
Stewart Information Services Corp. | 32,225 | 1,304,790 | ||
7,594,932 | ||||
Interactive Media and Services — 1.1% | ||||
Care.com, Inc.(1) | 126,028 | 1,383,787 | ||
Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc., Class A(1) | 117,564 | 1,457,794 | ||
Meet Group, Inc. (The)(1) | 312,726 | 1,088,287 | ||
QuinStreet, Inc.(1) | 11,565 | 183,305 | ||
4,113,173 |
11
Shares | Value | |||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 0.7% | ||||
1-800-Flowers.com, Inc., Class A(1) | 105,423 | $ | 1,990,386 | |
Liberty Expedia Holdings, Inc., Class A(1) | 13,323 | 636,706 | ||
2,627,092 | ||||
IT Services — 1.8% | ||||
CACI International, Inc., Class A(1) | 12,352 | 2,527,096 | ||
Carbonite, Inc.(1) | 49,036 | 1,276,897 | ||
Endurance International Group Holdings, Inc.(1) | 140,479 | 674,299 | ||
EVERTEC, Inc. | 83,255 | 2,722,439 | ||
7,200,731 | ||||
Leisure Products — 0.5% | ||||
Malibu Boats, Inc., Class A(1) | 10,616 | 412,431 | ||
MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc.(1) | 83,932 | 1,644,228 | ||
2,056,659 | ||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 1.4% | ||||
Medpace Holdings, Inc.(1) | 44,077 | 2,883,517 | ||
NeoGenomics, Inc.(1) | 108,191 | 2,373,711 | ||
5,257,228 | ||||
Machinery — 1.9% | ||||
Albany International Corp., Class A | 25,737 | 2,133,855 | ||
Franklin Electric Co., Inc. | 14,143 | 671,793 | ||
Miller Industries, Inc. | 2,671 | 82,133 | ||
SPX Corp.(1) | 40,068 | 1,323,045 | ||
SPX FLOW, Inc.(1) | 24,492 | 1,025,235 | ||
Tennant Co. | 2,703 | 165,424 | ||
TriMas Corp.(1) | 66,690 | 2,065,389 | ||
7,466,874 | ||||
Media — 1.1% | ||||
Fluent, Inc.(1) | 105,159 | 565,755 | ||
Gray Television, Inc.(1) | 96,863 | 1,587,585 | ||
New Media Investment Group, Inc. | 138,080 | 1,303,475 | ||
Nexstar Media Group, Inc., Class A | 9,109 | 920,009 | ||
4,376,824 | ||||
Metals and Mining — 0.5% | ||||
Kaiser Aluminum Corp. | 20,756 | 2,025,993 | ||
Multi-Utilities — 0.1% | ||||
Black Hills Corp. | 3,153 | 246,470 | ||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 2.7% | ||||
Arch Coal, Inc., Class A(2) | 28,508 | 2,685,739 | ||
CVR Energy, Inc. | 57,046 | 2,851,729 | ||
Delek US Holdings, Inc. | 67,117 | 2,719,581 | ||
Midstates Petroleum Co., Inc.(1) | 45,484 | 267,901 | ||
NACCO Industries, Inc., Class A | 34,400 | 1,786,736 | ||
Renewable Energy Group, Inc.(1) | 7,104 | 112,669 | ||
10,424,355 | ||||
Paper and Forest Products — 0.4% | ||||
Boise Cascade Co. | 33,416 | 939,324 |
12
Shares | Value | |||
Verso Corp., Class A(1) | 29,646 | $ | 564,756 | |
1,504,080 | ||||
Personal Products — 0.7% | ||||
Medifast, Inc. | 20,777 | 2,665,689 | ||
Pharmaceuticals — 1.7% | ||||
Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc.(1) | 64,220 | 844,493 | ||
Corcept Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 36,628 | 408,402 | ||
Horizon Therapeutics plc(1) | 73,162 | 1,760,278 | ||
Innoviva, Inc.(1) | 75,577 | 1,100,401 | ||
Pacira BioSciences, Inc.(1) | 29,257 | 1,272,387 | ||
Phibro Animal Health Corp., Class A | 7,141 | 226,870 | ||
Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 31,273 | 1,034,823 | ||
6,647,654 | ||||
Professional Services — 3.4% | ||||
ASGN, Inc.(1) | 44,951 | 2,724,031 | ||
Barrett Business Services, Inc. | 15,255 | 1,260,063 | ||
BG Staffing, Inc. | 38,408 | 725,143 | ||
Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc. | 68,597 | 2,055,852 | ||
Insperity, Inc. | 8,009 | 978,219 | ||
Kforce, Inc. | 56,983 | 1,999,534 | ||
Korn Ferry | 8,506 | 340,835 | ||
TriNet Group, Inc.(1) | 20,424 | 1,384,747 | ||
TrueBlue, Inc.(1) | 75,210 | 1,659,133 | ||
13,127,557 | ||||
Real Estate Management and Development — 0.2% | ||||
Newmark Group, Inc., Class A | 98,067 | 880,642 | ||
RMR Group, Inc. (The), Class A | 999 | 46,933 | ||
927,575 | ||||
Road and Rail — 2.0% | ||||
ArcBest Corp. | 66,282 | 1,863,187 | ||
Marten Transport Ltd. | 69,795 | 1,266,779 | ||
Saia, Inc.(1) | 29,371 | 1,899,423 | ||
Werner Enterprises, Inc. | 51,344 | 1,595,772 | ||
YRC Worldwide, Inc.(1) | 262,548 | 1,058,068 | ||
7,683,229 | ||||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 3.5% | ||||
Diodes, Inc.(1) | 74,822 | 2,721,276 | ||
Inphi Corp.(1) | 46,152 | 2,312,215 | ||
Lattice Semiconductor Corp.(1) | 212,173 | 3,095,604 | ||
Nanometrics, Inc.(1) | 62,415 | 2,166,425 | ||
NeoPhotonics Corp.(1) | 173,995 | 727,299 | ||
Semtech Corp.(1) | 52,124 | 2,504,558 | ||
13,527,377 | ||||
Software — 6.9% | ||||
ACI Worldwide, Inc.(1) | 77,661 | 2,666,879 | ||
Altair Engineering, Inc., Class A(1) | 7,910 | 319,485 | ||
Appfolio, Inc., Class A(1) | 12,205 | 1,248,205 |
13
Shares | Value | |||
Aspen Technology, Inc.(1) | 9,073 | $ | 1,127,592 | |
Box, Inc., Class A(1) | 128,384 | 2,260,842 | ||
ChannelAdvisor Corp.(1) | 17,185 | 150,541 | ||
CommVault Systems, Inc.(1) | 39,370 | 1,953,539 | ||
Cornerstone OnDemand, Inc.(1) | 50,902 | 2,948,753 | ||
eGain Corp.(1) | 42,954 | 349,646 | ||
Fair Isaac Corp.(1) | 7,309 | 2,295,172 | ||
MobileIron, Inc.(1) | 86,497 | 536,281 | ||
Model N, Inc.(1) | 119,209 | 2,324,576 | ||
Paylocity Holding Corp.(1) | 15,341 | 1,439,293 | ||
Progress Software Corp. | 64,852 | 2,828,844 | ||
SPS Commerce, Inc.(1) | 26,414 | 2,699,775 | ||
Verint Systems, Inc.(1) | 16,377 | 880,755 | ||
Zendesk, Inc.(1) | 10,784 | 960,100 | ||
26,990,278 | ||||
Specialty Retail — 4.6% | ||||
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. | 135,406 | 2,288,362 | ||
Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.(1) | 407,711 | 1,369,909 | ||
Conn's, Inc.(1) | 19,071 | 339,845 | ||
Genesco, Inc.(1) | 49,117 | 2,077,158 | ||
Hibbett Sports, Inc.(1) | 77,356 | 1,407,879 | ||
Lithia Motors, Inc., Class A | 2,989 | 355,034 | ||
Murphy USA, Inc.(1) | 31,212 | 2,622,744 | ||
Rent-A-Center, Inc.(1) | 86,814 | 2,311,857 | ||
Shoe Carnival, Inc.(2) | 64,179 | 1,771,340 | ||
Sleep Number Corp.(1) | 48,414 | 1,955,442 | ||
Zumiez, Inc.(1) | 53,864 | 1,405,850 | ||
17,905,420 | ||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals — 0.8% | ||||
Avid Technology, Inc.(1) | 103,476 | 943,701 | ||
Pure Storage, Inc., Class A(1) | 21,896 | 334,352 | ||
Stratasys Ltd.(1) | 58,625 | 1,721,816 | ||
2,999,869 | ||||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 1.5% | ||||
Crocs, Inc.(1) | 107,695 | 2,126,976 | ||
Deckers Outdoor Corp.(1) | 16,818 | 2,959,464 | ||
Vera Bradley, Inc.(1) | 52,280 | 627,360 | ||
5,713,800 | ||||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — 4.0% | ||||
Essent Group Ltd.(1) | 74,599 | 3,505,407 | ||
Flagstar Bancorp, Inc. | 66,771 | 2,212,791 | ||
MGIC Investment Corp.(1) | 141,063 | 1,853,568 | ||
NMI Holdings, Inc., Class A(1) | 82,899 | 2,353,503 | ||
Radian Group, Inc. | 146,017 | 3,336,488 | ||
Walker & Dunlop, Inc. | 45,708 | 2,432,123 | ||
15,693,880 |
14
Shares | Value | |||
Trading Companies and Distributors — 0.9% | ||||
Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. | 38,325 | $ | 2,358,137 | |
Rush Enterprises, Inc., Class A | 36,350 | 1,327,502 | ||
3,685,639 | ||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.3% | ||||
Shenandoah Telecommunications Co. | 15,781 | 607,884 | ||
Spok Holdings, Inc. | 39,011 | 586,726 | ||
1,194,610 | ||||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $369,511,124) | 391,652,813 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 0.9% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $3,211,431), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $3,153,679) | 3,153,088 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.375%, 7/15/27, valued at $612,401), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $598,062) | 598,000 | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 2,884 | 2,884 | ||
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $3,753,972) | 3,753,972 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS - SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL(3) — 1.1% | ||||
State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio (Cost $4,173,992) | 4,173,992 | 4,173,992 | ||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES — 102.6% (Cost $377,439,088) | 399,580,777 | |||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — (2.6)% | (10,286,982 | ) | ||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 389,293,795 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
† | Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets. |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
(2) | Security, or a portion thereof, is on loan. At the period end, the aggregate value of securities on loan was $5,934,750. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers. |
(3) | Investment of cash collateral from securities on loan. At the period end, the aggregate market value of the collateral held by the fund was $6,113,052, which includes securities collateral of $1,939,060. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
15
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $373,265,096) | $ | 395,406,785 | |
Investment made with cash collateral received for securities on loan, at value (cost of $4,173,992) | 4,173,992 | ||
Total investment securities, at value (cost of $377,439,088) | 399,580,777 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 251,132 | ||
Securities lending receivable | 2,226 | ||
399,834,135 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Payable for collateral received for securities on loan | 4,173,992 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 6,366,348 | ||
10,540,340 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 389,293,795 | |
G Class Capital Shares, $0.01 Par Value | |||
Shares authorized | 340,000,000 | ||
Shares outstanding | 48,364,128 | ||
Net Asset Value Per Share | $ | 8.05 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 379,751,446 | |
Distributable earnings | 9,542,349 | ||
$ | 389,293,795 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
16
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $2,276) | $ | 4,488,887 | |
Interest | 78,106 | ||
Securities lending, net | 5,188 | ||
4,572,181 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Management fees | 2,614,582 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 27,931 | ||
Other expenses | 2,565 | ||
2,645,078 | |||
Fees waived | (2,614,582 | ) | |
30,496 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 4,541,685 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | 6,017,605 | ||
Futures contract transactions | 713,046 | ||
6,730,651 | |||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | (37,484,258 | ) | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | (30,753,607 | ) | |
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | (26,211,922 | ) |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
17
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 4,541,685 | $ | 3,964,550 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | 6,730,651 | 43,989,451 | ||||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (37,484,258 | ) | 12,517,018 | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | (26,211,922 | ) | 60,471,019 | |||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings(1) | (56,176,953 | ) | (59,035,626 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Proceeds from shares sold | 80,352,886 | 29,785,693 | ||||
Proceeds from reinvestment of distributions | 56,176,953 | 59,035,626 | ||||
Payments for shares redeemed | (88,875,472 | ) | (105,178,093 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions | 47,654,367 | (16,356,774 | ) | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (34,734,508 | ) | (14,921,381 | ) | ||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 424,028,303 | 438,949,684 | ||||
End of period | $ | 389,293,795 | $ | 424,028,303 | ||
Transactions in Shares of the Fund | ||||||
Sold | 9,403,297 | 2,936,932 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 7,412,688 | 6,185,583 | ||||
Redeemed | (10,218,914 | ) | (10,098,030 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in shares of the fund | 6,597,071 | (975,515 | ) |
(1) | Prior period presentation has been updated to reflect the current period combination of distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains. Distributions from net investment income were $(2,762,976). Distributions from net realized gains were $(56,272,650). |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
18
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. NT Small Company Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital growth. The fund is not permitted to invest in securities issued by companies assigned the Global Industry Classification Standard or the Bloomberg Industry Classification Standard for the tobacco industry. The fund offers the G Class.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. Exchange-traded futures contracts are valued at the settlement price as provided by the appropriate exchange.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
19
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Securities lending income is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Segregated Assets — In accordance with the 1940 Act, the fund segregates assets on its books and records to cover certain types of investment securities and other financial instruments. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities segregated to ensure the fund designates a sufficient amount of liquid assets, marked-to-market daily. The fund may also receive assets or be required to pledge assets at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid quarterly. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually.
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
Securities Lending — Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street Bank & Trust Co. serves as securities lending agent to the fund pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the fund to risks such as: the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the fund may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the fund may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge collateral in the form of cash and/or securities. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the fund in the case of default of any securities borrowed. Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. The loans may also be secured by U.S. government securities in an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned, plus accrued interest and dividends, determined on a daily basis and adjusted accordingly. By lending securities, the fund seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. The value of loaned securities and related
20
collateral outstanding at period end, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2019.
Remaining Contractual Maturity of Agreements | ||||||||||||
Overnight and Continuous | <30 days | Between 30 & 90 days | >90 days | Total | ||||||||
Securities Lending Transactions(1) | ||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 4,173,992 | — | — | — | $ | 4,173,992 | |||||
Gross amount of recognized liabilities for securities lending transactions | $ | 4,173,992 |
(1) | Amount represents the payable for cash collateral received for securities on loan. This will generally be in the Overnight and Continuous column as the securities are typically callable on demand. |
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc., and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC. Various funds issued by American Century Asset Allocation Portfolios, Inc. own, in aggregate, 100% of the shares of the fund. Related parties do not invest in the fund for the purpose of exercising management or control.
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee). The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on the daily net assets of the fund and paid monthly in arrears. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds. The rates for the Investment Category Fee range from 0.5380% to 0.7200%. The rates for the Complex Fee range from 0.0500% to 0.1100%. The investment advisor agreed to waive the fund's management fee in its entirety. The investment advisor expects this waiver to remain in effect permanently and cannot terminate it without the approval of the Board of Directors. The effective annual management fee for the period ended June 30, 2019 was 0.66% before waiver and 0.00% after waiver.
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $2,001,208 and $5,358,215, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $823,901 in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $432,416,764 and $429,547,905, respectively.
21
5. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 391,652,813 | — | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 2,884 | $ | 3,751,088 | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments - Securities Lending Collateral | 4,173,992 | — | — | |||||
$ | 395,829,689 | $ | 3,751,088 | — |
6. Derivative Instruments
Equity Price Risk — The fund is subject to equity price risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. A fund may enter into futures contracts based on an equity index in order to manage its exposure to changes in market conditions. A fund may purchase futures contracts to gain exposure to increases in market value or sell futures contracts to protect against a decline in market value. Upon entering into a futures contract, a fund is required to deposit either cash or securities in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract value (initial margin). Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received daily, in cash, by a fund. The variation margin is equal to the daily change in the contract value and is recorded as unrealized gains and losses. A fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when the contract is closed or expires. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of futures contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts, respectively. One of the risks of entering into futures contracts is the possibility that the change in value of the contract may not correlate with the changes in value of the underlying securities. During the period, the fund participated in equity price risk derivative instruments for temporary investment purposes.
At period end, the fund did not have any derivative instruments disclosed on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the year ended June 30, 2019, the effect of equity price risk derivative instruments on the Statement of Operations was $713,046 in net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions.
22
7. Risk Factors
The fund is owned by a relatively small number of shareholders, and in the event such shareholders redeem, the ongoing operations of the fund may be at risk.
The fund invests in common stocks of small companies. Because of this, the fund may be subject to greater risk and market fluctuations than a fund investing in larger, more established companies.
The fund’s investment process may result in high portfolio turnover, which could mean high transaction costs, affecting both performance and capital gains tax liabilities to investors.
8. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 10,321,296 | $ | 4,543,376 | ||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 45,855,657 | $ | 54,492,250 |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 379,086,135 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 45,903,346 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (25,408,704 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | $ | 20,494,642 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $ | 1,967,507 | |
Post-October capital loss deferral | $ | (12,919,800 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
Loss deferrals represent certain qualified losses that the fund has elected to treat as having been incurred in the following fiscal year for federal income tax purposes.
23
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Operating Expenses (before expense waiver) | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Net Investment Income (Loss) (before expense waiver) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
G Class | |||||||||||||||||
2019 | $10.15 | 0.10 | (0.89) | (0.79) | (0.10) | (1.21) | (1.31) | $8.05 | (6.96)% | 0.01% | 0.67% | 1.15% | 0.49% | 109% | $389,294 | ||
2018 | $10.27 | 0.09 | 1.26 | 1.35 | (0.06) | (1.41) | (1.47) | $10.15 | 14.13% | 0.06% | 0.66% | 0.90% | 0.30% | 99% | $424,028 | ||
2017 | $8.51 | 0.05 | 1.77 | 1.82 | (0.06) | — | (0.06) | $10.27 | 21.42% | 0.67% | 0.67% | 0.57% | 0.57% | 118% | $438,950 | ||
2016 | $10.13 | 0.05 | (0.89) | (0.84) | (0.05) | (0.73) | (0.78) | $8.51 | (8.27)% | 0.67% | 0.67% | 0.56% | 0.56% | 107% | $392,337 | ||
2015 | $11.00 | 0.04 | 0.41 | 0.45 | (0.03) | (1.29) | (1.32) | $10.13 | 5.12% | 0.67% | 0.67% | 0.43% | 0.43% | 119% | $353,174 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of NT Small Company Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of NT Small Company Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
25
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
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Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
27
Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
28
Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
29
Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was below its benchmark for the one-, three-, five-, and ten-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board discussed the Fund’s performance with the Advisor and was satisfied with the efforts being undertaken by the Advisor. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
30
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer group. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
31
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
32
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
33
Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $4,650,064, or up to the maximum amount allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
The fund hereby designates $45,855,657, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund hereby designates $6,105,965 as qualified short-term capital gain distributions for purposes of Internal Revenue Code Section 871 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
34
Notes |
35
Notes |
36
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92998 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
Small Company Fund | |
Investor Class (ASQIX) | |
I Class (ASCQX) | |
A Class (ASQAX) | |
C Class (ASQCX) | |
R Class (ASCRX) | |
R5 Class (ASQGX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
President's Letter | 2 | |
Performance | 3 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
President’s Letter |
Jonathan Thomas
Dear Investor:
Thank you for reviewing this annual report for the period ended June 30, 2019. Annual reports help convey important information about fund returns, including market factors that affected performance during the reporting period. For additional investment and market insights, we encourage you to visit our website, americancentury.com.
Markets Overcame Heightened Volatility
Most broad large- and mid-cap stock indices ended the 12-month period with gains. However, these positive results masked some severe volatility, which led to wide performance swings. For example, the S&P 500 Index returned -6.85% in the first half of the period and 18.54% in the second half, leaving the index up 10.42% for the year. Even more dramatic, the S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index returned -21.91% in the first half of the reporting period, 13.34% in the second half, and -11.49% overall.
Fed’s Flip Fueled Investor Optimism
In the first half, mounting concerns about slowing global economic and earnings growth and Federal Reserve (Fed) policy soured investor sentiment. After raising rates in September, the Fed hiked again in December and delivered a surprisingly hawkish rate-hike outlook that worried investors and fueled a steep sell-off among riskier assets. Meanwhile, the risk-off climate sparked a flight to quality. Treasury yields plunged, triggering a rally among perceived safe-haven assets.
The new year brought a renewed sense of stability to financial markets and a key policy pivot from the Fed. The central bank abruptly and unexpectedly ended its rate-hike campaign and adopted a dovish tone amid moderating global growth and inflation. Additionally, investors’ worst-case fears about growth, trade and corporate earnings eased. Equity valuations appeared attractive, and a rally ensued. At the same time, Treasury yields continued to fall on moderating global growth data, muted inflation and accommodative central bank policy, which supported continued gains for interest rate-sensitive assets.
Looking ahead, we expect volatility to remain a formidable factor as investors react to global growth and trade trends, central bank policy and geopolitical developments. We believe this scenario underscores the importance of using professionally managed portfolios in pursuit of your investment goals. We appreciate your continued trust and confidence in us.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Thomas
President and Chief Executive Officer
American Century Investments
2
Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | ||||||
Average Annual Returns | ||||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | ASQIX | -7.66% | 3.87% | 12.43% | — | 7/31/98 |
Russell 2000 Index | — | -3.31% | 7.06% | 13.44% | — | — |
I Class | ASCQX | -7.50% | 4.07% | 12.66% | — | 10/1/99 |
A Class | ASQAX | 9/7/00 | ||||
No sales charge | -7.90% | 3.61% | 12.17% | — | ||
With sales charge | -13.19% | 2.40% | 11.50% | — | ||
C Class | ASQCX | -8.60% | 2.84% | — | 9.28% | 3/1/10 |
R Class | ASCRX | -8.15% | 3.35% | 11.88% | — | 8/29/03 |
R5 Class | ASQGX | -7.49% | — | — | 2.83% | 4/10/17 |
Average annual returns since inception are presented when ten years of performance history is not available.
Prior to March 1, 2010, the A Class was referred to as the Advisor Class and did not have a front-end sales charge. Performance prior to that date has been adjusted to reflect this charge.
Sales charges include initial sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSCs), as applicable. A Class shares have a 5.75% maximum initial sales charge and may be subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. C Class shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase are subject to a maximum CDSC of 1.00%. The SEC requires that mutual funds provide performance information net of maximum sales charges in all cases where charges could be applied.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
3
Growth of $10,000 Over 10 Years |
$10,000 investment made June 30, 2009 |
Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure. |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $32,299 | |
Russell 2000 Index — $35,313 | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | |||||
Investor Class | I Class | A Class | C Class | R Class | R5 Class |
0.86% | 0.66% | 1.11% | 1.86% | 1.36% | 0.66% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
4
Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Brian Garbe and Steven Rossi
Performance Summary
Small Company returned -7.66%* for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019, compared with the -3.31% return of its benchmark, the Russell 2000 Index.
Small Company fell during the fiscal year and trailed the return of its benchmark, the Russell 2000 Index. Stock choices in the consumer discretionary and communication services sectors detracted most from performance, while selections in the health care and energy sectors benefited fund results.
Stock Choices Across Several Sectors Detracted from Relative Returns
Stock choices were the largest driver of the fund’s 12-month results. Picks in the consumer discretionary sector detracted most from performance, primarily within the specialty retail and hotels, restaurants and leisure industries. A position in Tailored Brands, a clothing retailer, was among the top individual detractors. The stock slid throughout the second half of the period after management issued lower-than-expected earnings guidance. We have since exited the stock. BJ’s Restaurants also weighed on results and was among the top detractors from overall performance. Positioning in the household durables and leisure products industries also provided a headwind.
Stock selection within communication services also negatively affected the portfolio, particularly within the media industry. Within interactive media and services, a position in Care.com was among the largest individual detractor. The caretaker procurement website has been under pressure due to negative press and critique of its caregiver vetting process. The share price fell throughout the last several months of the period. Positioning within the entertainment and wireless telecommunication services industries also detracted from relative returns.
Within the utilities sector, positioning within the electric, gas, water and multi-utilities industries detracted. Elsewhere among notable individual stocks, a position in Denbury Resources was also a leading detractor. The price of the energy company fell precipitously in October on oil price volatility and investor concern over its announcement to acquire Penn Virginia. We have closed the position. Natural and organic food product distributor United Natural Foods also provided a headwind to results. The stock declined throughout much of the first six months of the period after it announced its purchase of food distributor Supervalu. We no longer hold the stock.
Health Care and Energy Were Additive
In health care, stock choices within the life sciences tools and services, health care providers and services, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals industries were the largest drivers of positive returns. In life sciences tools and services, a position in Medpace Holdings was among the best performing stocks for the period. The research company maintains high scores for quality and value. Health care service provider The Ensign Group was also a top individual contributor to results. The stock rose throughout the latter half of the period and maintains high scores for quality and growth.
*All fund returns referenced in this commentary are for Investor Class shares. Performance for other share classes will vary due to differences in fee structure; when Investor Class performance exceeds that of the fund’s benchmark, other share classes may not. See page 3 for returns for all share classes.
5
Stock selection within the energy sector also helped relative results. Choices within the oil, gas and consumable fuels industry benefited performance, such as CVR Energy and NACCO Industries. Selections within energy equipment and services also helped. Among other notable individual contributors, Lattice Semiconductor was a top-performing stock. The price rose throughout the second half of the period after beating expectations and raising guidance. The company earns positive scores for growth, quality and sentiment. Outdoor apparel and shoe company Deckers Outdoor was also a leading driver of performance. The stock rose over the period on the back of several earnings beats and guidance increases. Deckers Outdoor scores well on our quality, sentiment and growth factors.
Portfolio Positioning
Our disciplined, objective and systematic investment strategy is designed to take advantage of opportunities at the individual company level. We believe this approach is the most powerful way to capitalize on market inefficiencies that lead to the mispricing of individual stocks. As a result, our sector weights reflect where we are finding opportunities at a given time.
At period-end, the portfolio’s largest relative overweights were in the industrials and information technology sectors. In industrials, we find attractive investment opportunities within the road and rail and professional services industries. In information technology, our models indicate opportunity in the software and semiconductors and semiconductor equipment industries. Conversely, we reduced our exposure to materials stocks during the period. The sector is now among the largest relative underweight positions. We feel there is a comparative lack of opportunity in the sector, particularly within the chemicals industry. The utilities sector also shows a lack of opportunity and was also a significant relative underweight at period-end.
6
Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Holdings | % of net assets |
EMCOR Group, Inc. | 0.9% |
Tetra Tech, Inc. | 0.9% |
Essent Group Ltd. | 0.9% |
Haemonetics Corp. | 0.9% |
Ensign Group, Inc. (The) | 0.8% |
Radian Group, Inc. | 0.8% |
Herman Miller, Inc. | 0.8% |
Tech Data Corp. | 0.8% |
Lattice Semiconductor Corp. | 0.8% |
Integer Holdings Corp. | 0.7% |
Top Five Industries | % of net assets |
Banks | 7.5% |
Software | 6.8% |
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) | 5.4% |
Biotechnology | 5.2% |
Specialty Retail | 4.5% |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Common Stocks | 98.5% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 1.5% |
Temporary Cash Investments - Securities Lending Collateral | 1.0% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | (1.0)% |
7
Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
If you hold Investor Class shares of any American Century Investments fund, or I Class shares of the American Century Diversified Bond Fund, in an American Century Investments account (i.e., not a financial intermediary or retirement plan account), American Century Investments may charge you a $12.50 semiannual account maintenance fee if the value of those shares is less than $10,000. We will redeem shares automatically in one of your accounts to pay the $12.50 fee. In determining your total eligible investment amount, we will include your investments in all personal accounts (including American Century Investments Brokerage accounts) registered under your Social Security number. Personal accounts include individual accounts, joint accounts, UGMA/UTMA accounts, personal trusts, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and IRAs (including traditional, Roth, Rollover, SEP-, SARSEP- and SIMPLE-IRAs), and certain other retirement accounts. If you have only business, business retirement, employer-sponsored or American Century Investments Brokerage accounts, you are currently not subject to this fee. If you are subject to the Account Maintenance Fee, your account value could be reduced by the fee amount.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
8
Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,133.10 | $4.60 | 0.87% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,134.10 | $3.55 | 0.67% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,131.70 | $5.92 | 1.12% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,127.30 | $9.86 | 1.87% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,130.60 | $7.24 | 1.37% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $1,134.00 | $3.55 | 0.67% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,020.48 | $4.36 | 0.87% |
I Class | $1,000 | $1,021.47 | $3.36 | 0.67% |
A Class | $1,000 | $1,019.24 | $5.61 | 1.12% |
C Class | $1,000 | $1,015.52 | $9.35 | 1.87% |
R Class | $1,000 | $1,018.00 | $6.85 | 1.37% |
R5 Class | $1,000 | $1,021.47 | $3.36 | 0.67% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
9
Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 98.5% | ||||
Aerospace and Defense — 1.0% | ||||
Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc.(1) | 20,495 | $ | 917,561 | |
Curtiss-Wright Corp. | 27,645 | 3,514,509 | ||
Ducommun, Inc.(1) | 11,180 | 503,883 | ||
Vectrus, Inc.(1) | 28,912 | 1,172,671 | ||
6,108,624 | ||||
Air Freight and Logistics — 0.3% | ||||
Hub Group, Inc., Class A(1) | 38,642 | 1,622,191 | ||
Banks — 7.5% | ||||
Bancorp, Inc. (The)(1) | 318,153 | 2,837,925 | ||
Bank of NT Butterfield & Son Ltd. (The) | 107,076 | 3,636,301 | ||
Banner Corp. | 66,421 | 3,596,697 | ||
Boston Private Financial Holdings, Inc. | 71,987 | 868,883 | ||
Bryn Mawr Bank Corp. | 2,296 | 85,687 | ||
Camden National Corp. | 14,469 | 663,693 | ||
Central Pacific Financial Corp. | 129,334 | 3,874,847 | ||
Chemical Financial Corp. | 17,807 | 732,046 | ||
Enterprise Financial Services Corp. | 66,901 | 2,783,081 | ||
Financial Institutions, Inc. | 59,984 | 1,748,533 | ||
First Citizens BancShares, Inc., Class A | 7,451 | 3,354,962 | ||
First Commonwealth Financial Corp. | 63,430 | 854,402 | ||
First Financial Corp. | 3,257 | 130,801 | ||
First Merchants Corp. | 97,860 | 3,708,894 | ||
IBERIABANK Corp. | 16,284 | 1,235,141 | ||
Independent Bank Corp. | 124,546 | 2,713,857 | ||
International Bancshares Corp. | 104,880 | 3,955,025 | ||
Lakeland Bancorp, Inc. | 30,371 | 490,492 | ||
OFG Bancorp | 84,114 | 1,999,390 | ||
Renasant Corp. | 37,828 | 1,359,538 | ||
United Community Banks, Inc. | 155,703 | 4,446,878 | ||
WesBanco, Inc. | 19,831 | 764,485 | ||
45,841,558 | ||||
Beverages — 0.6% | ||||
Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. | 11,358 | 3,398,881 | ||
Biotechnology — 5.2% | ||||
Aduro Biotech, Inc.(1) | 40,964 | 63,085 | ||
Akcea Therapeutics, Inc.(1)(2) | 16,351 | 383,431 | ||
AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 19,038 | 190,190 | ||
Anika Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 34,140 | 1,386,767 | ||
Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 35,256 | 2,067,059 | ||
Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 92,130 | 2,441,445 | ||
BioSpecifics Technologies Corp.(1) | 19,834 | 1,184,288 |
10
Shares | Value | |||
CareDx, Inc.(1) | 52,067 | $ | 1,873,891 | |
Denali Therapeutics, Inc.(1)(2) | 15,391 | 319,517 | ||
Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 93,543 | 1,473,302 | ||
Eagle Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 24,129 | 1,343,503 | ||
Esperion Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 29,637 | 1,378,713 | ||
Exelixis, Inc.(1) | 60,296 | 1,288,525 | ||
Genomic Health, Inc.(1) | 27,784 | 1,616,195 | ||
Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 118,027 | 2,027,704 | ||
Intrexon Corp.(1)(2) | 21,686 | 166,115 | ||
Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 144,963 | 1,585,895 | ||
Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1)(2) | 11,465 | 1,308,730 | ||
Myriad Genetics, Inc.(1) | 69,524 | 1,931,377 | ||
Natera, Inc.(1) | 45,323 | 1,250,008 | ||
Pieris Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 336,774 | 1,582,838 | ||
Prothena Corp. plc(1) | 134,589 | 1,422,606 | ||
Puma Biotechnology, Inc.(1) | 52,210 | 663,589 | ||
Veracyte, Inc.(1) | 50,544 | 1,441,009 | ||
Voyager Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 63,267 | 1,722,128 | ||
32,111,910 | ||||
Capital Markets — 1.8% | ||||
Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc., Class A | 61,382 | 1,689,233 | ||
Blucora, Inc.(1) | 105,387 | 3,200,603 | ||
Diamond Hill Investment Group, Inc. | 1,309 | 185,511 | ||
Piper Jaffray Cos. | 44,866 | 3,332,198 | ||
Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc., Class A | 118,362 | 1,973,095 | ||
Westwood Holdings Group, Inc. | 11,300 | 397,760 | ||
10,778,400 | ||||
Chemicals — 0.5% | ||||
FutureFuel Corp. | 25,628 | 299,591 | ||
Hawkins, Inc. | 3,150 | 136,741 | ||
Innophos Holdings, Inc. | 17,579 | 511,725 | ||
Kraton Corp.(1) | 47,679 | 1,481,387 | ||
Tredegar Corp. | 29,632 | 492,484 | ||
2,921,928 | ||||
Commercial Services and Supplies — 3.8% | ||||
Cimpress NV(1) | 39,627 | 3,601,698 | ||
Herman Miller, Inc. | 112,580 | 5,032,326 | ||
Kimball International, Inc., Class B | 10,124 | 176,461 | ||
Knoll, Inc. | 176,140 | 4,047,697 | ||
McGrath RentCorp | 20,802 | 1,292,844 | ||
Steelcase, Inc., Class A | 224,634 | 3,841,242 | ||
Tetra Tech, Inc. | 69,218 | 5,437,074 | ||
23,429,342 | ||||
Communications Equipment — 1.8% | ||||
Acacia Communications, Inc.(1) | 72,061 | 3,398,397 | ||
Ciena Corp.(1) | 88,235 | 3,629,106 | ||
Comtech Telecommunications Corp. | 17,927 | 503,928 |
11
Shares | Value | |||
Plantronics, Inc. | 51,235 | $ | 1,897,744 | |
Viavi Solutions, Inc.(1) | 142,619 | 1,895,406 | ||
11,324,581 | ||||
Construction and Engineering — 2.4% | ||||
Comfort Systems USA, Inc. | 75,707 | 3,860,300 | ||
EMCOR Group, Inc. | 62,966 | 5,547,305 | ||
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corp.(1) | 153,664 | 1,696,450 | ||
MasTec, Inc.(1) | 72,247 | 3,722,888 | ||
14,826,943 | ||||
Construction Materials — 0.1% | ||||
US Concrete, Inc.(1) | 18,048 | 896,805 | ||
Consumer Finance — 1.4% | ||||
Curo Group Holdings Corp.(1) | 76,653 | 847,016 | ||
Enova International, Inc.(1) | 159,073 | 3,666,633 | ||
Green Dot Corp., Class A(1) | 67,135 | 3,282,901 | ||
World Acceptance Corp.(1) | 5,019 | 823,668 | ||
8,620,218 | ||||
Distributors — 0.7% | ||||
Core-Mark Holding Co., Inc. | 107,371 | 4,264,776 | ||
Diversified Consumer Services — 1.1% | ||||
American Public Education, Inc.(1) | 44,496 | 1,316,192 | ||
Career Education Corp.(1) | 46,823 | 892,914 | ||
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Co.(1) | 146,099 | 841,530 | ||
K12, Inc.(1) | 112,624 | 3,424,896 | ||
6,475,532 | ||||
Diversified Financial Services — 0.3% | ||||
On Deck Capital, Inc.(1) | 375,620 | 1,558,823 | ||
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.6% | ||||
Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc.(2) | 615,674 | 3,035,273 | ||
Liberty Latin America Ltd., Class C(1) | 35,400 | 608,526 | ||
Ooma, Inc.(1) | 17,295 | 181,251 | ||
3,825,050 | ||||
Electric Utilities — 0.9% | ||||
ALLETE, Inc. | 18,977 | 1,579,076 | ||
Otter Tail Corp. | 58,024 | 3,064,247 | ||
PNM Resources, Inc. | 23,079 | 1,174,952 | ||
5,818,275 | ||||
Electrical Equipment — 2.6% | ||||
Allied Motion Technologies, Inc. | 3,525 | 133,598 | ||
Atkore International Group, Inc.(1) | 164,064 | 4,244,336 | ||
AZZ, Inc. | 78,402 | 3,608,060 | ||
Encore Wire Corp. | 60,387 | 3,537,470 | ||
Generac Holdings, Inc.(1) | 63,273 | 4,391,779 | ||
15,915,243 | ||||
Electronic Equipment, Instruments and Components — 2.5% | ||||
Insight Enterprises, Inc.(1) | 65,822 | 3,830,840 | ||
PC Connection, Inc. | 34,166 | 1,195,127 |
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Shares | Value | |||
Sanmina Corp.(1) | 29,359 | $ | 888,991 | |
ScanSource, Inc.(1) | 23,604 | 768,546 | ||
Tech Data Corp.(1) | 46,838 | 4,899,255 | ||
Vishay Precision Group, Inc.(1) | 84,050 | 3,414,951 | ||
14,997,710 | ||||
Energy Equipment and Services — 1.9% | ||||
Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc.(1) | 488,787 | 4,218,232 | ||
Matrix Service Co.(1) | 162,265 | 3,287,489 | ||
ProPetro Holding Corp.(1) | 36,283 | 751,058 | ||
SEACOR Holdings, Inc.(1) | 70,824 | 3,364,848 | ||
11,621,627 | ||||
Entertainment — 0.9% | ||||
Glu Mobile, Inc.(1) | 439,991 | 3,159,135 | ||
IMAX Corp.(1) | 96,653 | 1,952,391 | ||
Rosetta Stone, Inc.(1) | 9,937 | 227,359 | ||
5,338,885 | ||||
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) — 5.4% | ||||
American Assets Trust, Inc. | 78,330 | 3,690,910 | ||
Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. | 11,954 | 140,459 | ||
CareTrust REIT, Inc. | 173,392 | 4,123,262 | ||
CoreCivic, Inc. | 64,534 | 1,339,726 | ||
Cousins Properties, Inc. | 43,106 | 1,559,144 | ||
GEO Group, Inc. (The) | 183,748 | 3,860,545 | ||
Industrial Logistics Properties Trust | 99,294 | 2,067,301 | ||
Lexington Realty Trust | 79,322 | 746,420 | ||
LTC Properties, Inc. | 15,072 | 688,188 | ||
Mack-Cali Realty Corp. | 48,721 | 1,134,712 | ||
New Senior Investment Group, Inc. | 175,483 | 1,179,246 | ||
PS Business Parks, Inc. | 25,121 | 4,233,642 | ||
RLJ Lodging Trust | 225,115 | 3,993,540 | ||
Saul Centers, Inc. | 4,736 | 265,832 | ||
Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc. | 54,592 | 748,456 | ||
Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc.(2) | 187,257 | 3,035,436 | ||
32,806,819 | ||||
Food and Staples Retailing† | ||||
Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc.(1) | 16,471 | 165,534 | ||
Food Products — 0.2% | ||||
Lancaster Colony Corp. | 7,169 | 1,065,313 | ||
Health Care Equipment and Supplies — 3.9% | ||||
AngioDynamics, Inc.(1) | 114,030 | 2,245,251 | ||
Atrion Corp. | 371 | 316,366 | ||
CONMED Corp. | 31,053 | 2,657,205 | ||
Haemonetics Corp.(1) | 43,847 | 5,276,548 | ||
Integer Holdings Corp.(1) | 54,543 | 4,577,249 | ||
Meridian Bioscience, Inc. | 20,987 | 249,326 | ||
OraSure Technologies, Inc.(1) | 170,923 | 1,586,165 | ||
Orthofix Medical, Inc.(1) | 20,228 | 1,069,657 |
13
Shares | Value | |||
Quidel Corp.(1) | 13,042 | $ | 773,651 | |
STAAR Surgical Co.(1) | 92,240 | 2,710,011 | ||
Surmodics, Inc.(1) | 60,869 | 2,627,715 | ||
24,089,144 | ||||
Health Care Providers and Services — 2.7% | ||||
Amedisys, Inc.(1) | 33,914 | 4,117,499 | ||
Brookdale Senior Living, Inc.(1) | 299,645 | 2,160,440 | ||
CorVel Corp.(1) | 24,071 | 2,094,418 | ||
Ensign Group, Inc. (The) | 90,211 | 5,134,810 | ||
National HealthCare Corp. | 33,484 | 2,717,227 | ||
16,224,394 | ||||
Health Care Technology — 1.5% | ||||
Computer Programs & Systems, Inc. | 101,575 | 2,822,769 | ||
HealthStream, Inc.(1) | 128,029 | 3,310,830 | ||
Inovalon Holdings, Inc., Class A(1)(2) | 41,971 | 608,999 | ||
Omnicell, Inc.(1) | 28,380 | 2,441,532 | ||
9,184,130 | ||||
Hotels, Restaurants and Leisure — 2.8% | ||||
BJ's Restaurants, Inc. | 68,273 | 2,999,916 | ||
Bloomin' Brands, Inc. | 121,071 | 2,289,452 | ||
Boyd Gaming Corp. | 74,972 | 2,019,746 | ||
Cheesecake Factory, Inc. (The)(2) | 79,729 | 3,485,752 | ||
Dave & Buster's Entertainment, Inc. | 64,789 | 2,622,011 | ||
Jack in the Box, Inc. | 9,015 | 733,731 | ||
Ruth's Hospitality Group, Inc. | 136,499 | 3,099,892 | ||
17,250,500 | ||||
Household Durables — 0.1% | ||||
Skyline Champion Corp.(1) | 6,212 | 170,084 | ||
Universal Electronics, Inc.(1) | 9,288 | 380,994 | ||
551,078 | ||||
Insurance — 2.0% | ||||
Argo Group International Holdings Ltd. | 48,227 | 3,571,209 | ||
FBL Financial Group, Inc., Class A | 2,624 | 167,411 | ||
Heritage Insurance Holdings, Inc. | 16,669 | 256,869 | ||
Horace Mann Educators Corp. | 17,663 | 711,642 | ||
James River Group Holdings Ltd. | 19,744 | 925,994 | ||
National General Holdings Corp. | 127,880 | 2,933,567 | ||
National Western Life Group, Inc., Class A | 2,449 | 629,393 | ||
Safety Insurance Group, Inc. | 7,865 | 748,198 | ||
Stewart Information Services Corp. | 49,753 | 2,014,499 | ||
11,958,782 | ||||
Interactive Media and Services — 1.0% | ||||
Care.com, Inc.(1) | 191,627 | 2,104,064 | ||
Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc., Class A(1) | 182,615 | 2,264,426 | ||
Meet Group, Inc. (The)(1) | 492,806 | 1,714,965 | ||
QuinStreet, Inc.(1) | 20,623 | 326,875 | ||
6,410,330 |
14
Shares | Value | |||
Internet and Direct Marketing Retail — 0.7% | ||||
1-800-Flowers.com, Inc., Class A(1) | 164,065 | $ | 3,097,547 | |
Liberty Expedia Holdings, Inc., Class A(1) | 19,999 | 955,752 | ||
4,053,299 | ||||
IT Services — 1.8% | ||||
CACI International, Inc., Class A(1) | 18,853 | 3,857,135 | ||
Carbonite, Inc.(1) | 75,052 | 1,954,354 | ||
Endurance International Group Holdings, Inc.(1) | 215,635 | 1,035,048 | ||
EVERTEC, Inc. | 126,783 | 4,145,804 | ||
10,992,341 | ||||
Leisure Products — 0.5% | ||||
Malibu Boats, Inc., Class A(1) | 15,632 | 607,303 | ||
MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc.(1) | 129,636 | 2,539,569 | ||
3,146,872 | ||||
Life Sciences Tools and Services — 1.3% | ||||
Medpace Holdings, Inc.(1) | 66,760 | 4,367,439 | ||
NeoGenomics, Inc.(1) | 165,557 | 3,632,321 | ||
7,999,760 | ||||
Machinery — 1.9% | ||||
Albany International Corp., Class A | 40,858 | 3,387,537 | ||
Franklin Electric Co., Inc. | 21,916 | 1,041,010 | ||
Miller Industries, Inc. | 3,878 | 119,249 | ||
SPX Corp.(1) | 62,956 | 2,078,807 | ||
SPX FLOW, Inc.(1) | 36,289 | 1,519,058 | ||
Tennant Co. | 3,921 | 239,965 | ||
TriMas Corp.(1) | 103,587 | 3,208,089 | ||
11,593,715 | ||||
Media — 1.1% | ||||
Fluent, Inc.(1) | 167,359 | 900,392 | ||
Gray Television, Inc.(1) | 149,349 | 2,447,830 | ||
New Media Investment Group, Inc. | 195,769 | 1,848,059 | ||
Nexstar Media Group, Inc., Class A | 14,022 | 1,416,222 | ||
6,612,503 | ||||
Metals and Mining — 0.5% | ||||
Kaiser Aluminum Corp. | 30,872 | 3,013,416 | ||
Multi-Utilities† | ||||
Black Hills Corp. | 3,168 | 247,643 | ||
Oil, Gas and Consumable Fuels — 2.6% | ||||
Arch Coal, Inc., Class A | 43,462 | 4,094,555 | ||
CVR Energy, Inc. | 87,010 | 4,349,630 | ||
Delek US Holdings, Inc. | 102,538 | 4,154,840 | ||
Midstates Petroleum Co., Inc.(1) | 70,892 | 417,554 | ||
NACCO Industries, Inc., Class A | 52,946 | 2,750,015 | ||
Renewable Energy Group, Inc.(1) | 11,565 | 183,421 | ||
15,950,015 | ||||
Paper and Forest Products — 0.4% | ||||
Boise Cascade Co. | 48,479 | 1,362,745 |
15
Shares | Value | |||
Verso Corp., Class A(1) | 47,717 | $ | 909,009 | |
2,271,754 | ||||
Personal Products — 0.7% | ||||
Medifast, Inc. | 31,204 | 4,003,473 | ||
Pharmaceuticals — 1.7% | ||||
Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc.(1) | 98,669 | 1,297,497 | ||
Corcept Therapeutics, Inc.(1) | 58,670 | 654,171 | ||
Horizon Therapeutics plc(1) | 110,469 | 2,657,884 | ||
Innoviva, Inc.(1) | 113,979 | 1,659,534 | ||
Pacira BioSciences, Inc.(1) | 45,467 | 1,977,360 | ||
Phibro Animal Health Corp., Class A | 11,517 | 365,895 | ||
Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(1) | 46,799 | 1,548,579 | ||
10,160,920 | ||||
Professional Services — 3.3% | ||||
ASGN, Inc.(1) | 68,059 | 4,124,376 | ||
Barrett Business Services, Inc. | 23,682 | 1,956,133 | ||
BG Staffing, Inc. | 59,469 | 1,122,775 | ||
Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc. | 106,337 | 3,186,920 | ||
Insperity, Inc. | 12,332 | 1,506,231 | ||
Kforce, Inc. | 86,289 | 3,027,881 | ||
Korn Ferry | 13,561 | 543,389 | ||
TriNet Group, Inc.(1) | 32,578 | 2,208,788 | ||
TrueBlue, Inc.(1) | 115,637 | 2,550,952 | ||
20,227,445 | ||||
Real Estate Management and Development — 0.2% | ||||
Newmark Group, Inc., Class A | 148,367 | 1,332,336 | ||
RMR Group, Inc. (The), Class A | 1,791 | 84,141 | ||
1,416,477 | ||||
Road and Rail — 1.9% | ||||
ArcBest Corp. | 100,731 | 2,831,549 | ||
Marten Transport Ltd. | 106,329 | 1,929,871 | ||
Saia, Inc.(1) | 45,598 | 2,948,823 | ||
Werner Enterprises, Inc. | 77,413 | 2,405,996 | ||
YRC Worldwide, Inc.(1) | 394,813 | 1,591,096 | ||
11,707,335 | ||||
Semiconductors and Semiconductor Equipment — 3.4% | ||||
Diodes, Inc.(1) | 113,700 | 4,135,269 | ||
Inphi Corp.(1) | 69,836 | 3,498,783 | ||
Lattice Semiconductor Corp.(1) | 328,629 | 4,794,697 | ||
Nanometrics, Inc.(1) | 94,732 | 3,288,148 | ||
NeoPhotonics Corp.(1) | 272,856 | 1,140,538 | ||
Semtech Corp.(1) | 80,914 | 3,887,918 | ||
20,745,353 | ||||
Software — 6.8% | ||||
ACI Worldwide, Inc.(1) | 121,619 | 4,176,396 | ||
Altair Engineering, Inc., Class A(1) | 12,990 | 524,666 | ||
Appfolio, Inc., Class A(1) | 19,139 | 1,957,346 |
16
Shares | Value | |||
Aspen Technology, Inc.(1) | 13,743 | $ | 1,707,980 | |
Box, Inc., Class A(1) | 191,675 | 3,375,397 | ||
ChannelAdvisor Corp.(1) | 26,703 | 233,918 | ||
CommVault Systems, Inc.(1) | 60,492 | 3,001,613 | ||
Cornerstone OnDemand, Inc.(1) | 76,593 | 4,437,032 | ||
eGain Corp.(1) | 65,921 | 536,597 | ||
Fair Isaac Corp.(1) | 11,525 | 3,619,080 | ||
MobileIron, Inc.(1) | 131,310 | 814,122 | ||
Model N, Inc.(1) | 180,287 | 3,515,597 | ||
Paylocity Holding Corp.(1) | 23,862 | 2,238,733 | ||
Progress Software Corp. | 100,158 | 4,368,892 | ||
SPS Commerce, Inc.(1) | 40,925 | 4,182,944 | ||
Verint Systems, Inc.(1) | 25,670 | 1,380,533 | ||
Zendesk, Inc.(1) | 16,651 | 1,482,439 | ||
41,553,285 | ||||
Specialty Retail — 4.5% | ||||
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. | 208,023 | 3,515,589 | ||
Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.(1) | 620,108 | 2,083,563 | ||
Conn's, Inc.(1) | 30,103 | 536,435 | ||
Genesco, Inc.(1) | 74,009 | 3,129,841 | ||
Hibbett Sports, Inc.(1) | 120,794 | 2,198,451 | ||
Lithia Motors, Inc., Class A | 5,068 | 601,977 | ||
Murphy USA, Inc.(1) | 47,040 | 3,952,771 | ||
Rent-A-Center, Inc.(1) | 135,938 | 3,620,029 | ||
Shoe Carnival, Inc.(2) | 98,565 | 2,720,394 | ||
Sleep Number Corp.(1) | 74,036 | 2,990,314 | ||
Zumiez, Inc.(1) | 83,104 | 2,169,014 | ||
27,518,378 | ||||
Technology Hardware, Storage and Peripherals — 0.7% | ||||
Avid Technology, Inc.(1) | 158,711 | 1,447,444 | ||
Pure Storage, Inc., Class A(1) | 29,491 | 450,328 | ||
Stratasys Ltd.(1) | 89,579 | 2,630,935 | ||
4,528,707 | ||||
Textiles, Apparel and Luxury Goods — 1.4% | ||||
Crocs, Inc.(1) | 162,878 | 3,216,840 | ||
Deckers Outdoor Corp.(1) | 25,745 | 4,530,348 | ||
Vera Bradley, Inc.(1) | 81,806 | 981,672 | ||
8,728,860 | ||||
Thrifts and Mortgage Finance — 3.9% | ||||
Essent Group Ltd.(1) | 114,922 | 5,400,185 | ||
Flagstar Bancorp, Inc. | 102,520 | 3,397,513 | ||
MGIC Investment Corp.(1) | 215,610 | 2,833,115 | ||
NMI Holdings, Inc., Class A(1) | 127,988 | 3,633,579 | ||
Radian Group, Inc. | 221,555 | 5,062,532 | ||
TrustCo Bank Corp. NY | 15,732 | 124,597 | ||
Walker & Dunlop, Inc. | 68,994 | 3,671,171 | ||
24,122,692 |
17
Shares | Value | |||
Tobacco — 0.5% | ||||
Vector Group Ltd. | 324,893 | $ | 3,167,707 | |
Trading Companies and Distributors — 0.9% | ||||
Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc. | 57,271 | 3,523,885 | ||
Rush Enterprises, Inc., Class A | 55,106 | 2,012,471 | ||
5,536,356 | ||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.3% | ||||
Shenandoah Telecommunications Co. | 24,106 | 928,563 | ||
Spok Holdings, Inc. | 56,316 | 846,993 | ||
1,775,556 | ||||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $571,014,792) | 602,477,188 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 1.5% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $8,102,654), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $7,956,945) | 7,955,452 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.375%, 7/15/27, valued at $1,541,560), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $1,510,157) | 1,510,000 | |||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Premier Class | 6,070 | 6,070 | ||
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $9,471,522) | 9,471,522 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS - SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL(3) — 1.0% | ||||
State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio (Cost $5,814,034) | 5,814,034 | 5,814,034 | ||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES — 101.0% (Cost $586,300,348) | 617,762,744 | |||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — (1.0)% | (6,168,758 | ) | ||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 611,593,986 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
† | Category is less than 0.05% of total net assets. |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
(2) | Security, or a portion thereof, is on loan. At the period end, the aggregate value of securities on loan was $8,826,562. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers. |
(3) | Investment of cash collateral from securities on loan. At the period end, the aggregate market value of the collateral held by the fund was $9,120,142, which includes securities collateral of $3,306,108. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
18
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $580,486,314) | $ | 611,948,710 | |
Investment made with cash collateral received for securities on loan, at value (cost of $5,814,034) | 5,814,034 | ||
Total investment securities, at value (cost of $586,300,348) | 617,762,744 | ||
Receivable for capital shares sold | 49,330 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 375,544 | ||
Securities lending receivable | 3,073 | ||
618,190,691 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Payable for collateral received for securities on loan | 5,814,034 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 359,347 | ||
Accrued management fees | 414,654 | ||
Distribution and service fees payable | 8,670 | ||
6,596,705 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 611,593,986 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 598,938,189 | |
Distributable earnings | 12,655,797 | ||
$ | 611,593,986 |
Net Assets | Shares Outstanding | Net Asset Value Per Share | ||||
Investor Class, $0.01 Par Value | $566,025,277 | 42,635,123 | $13.28 | |||
I Class, $0.01 Par Value | $18,293,264 | 1,369,433 | $13.36 | |||
A Class, $0.01 Par Value | $14,960,423 | 1,160,558 | $12.89* | |||
C Class, $0.01 Par Value | $1,508,213 | 123,434 | $12.22 | |||
R Class, $0.01 Par Value | $10,525,264 | 838,456 | $12.55 | |||
R5 Class, $0.01 Par Value | $281,545 | 21,059 | $13.37 |
*Maximum offering price $13.68 (net asset value divided by 0.9425).
See Notes to Financial Statements.
19
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $3,710) | $ | 7,174,187 | |
Interest | 125,675 | ||
Securities lending, net | 6,435 | ||
7,306,297 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Management fees | 5,306,621 | ||
Distribution and service fees: | |||
A Class | 47,487 | ||
C Class | 16,807 | ||
R Class | 63,534 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 43,752 | ||
Other expenses | 5,364 | ||
5,483,565 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 1,822,732 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on: | |||
Investment transactions | 9,051,814 | ||
Futures contract transactions | (341,986 | ) | |
8,709,828 | |||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments | (55,593,892 | ) | |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | (46,884,064 | ) | |
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | (45,061,332 | ) |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
20
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 1,822,732 | $ | 623,612 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | 8,709,828 | 54,489,973 | ||||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | (55,593,892 | ) | 29,995,696 | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | (45,061,332 | ) | 85,109,281 | |||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings:(1) | ||||||
Investor Class | (60,872,390 | ) | (30,665,842 | ) | ||
I Class | (2,151,580 | ) | (1,310,721 | ) | ||
A Class | (1,924,288 | ) | (1,379,611 | ) | ||
C Class | (194,670 | ) | (87,493 | ) | ||
R Class | (1,385,413 | ) | (829,884 | ) | ||
R5 Class | (23,818 | ) | (5,652 | ) | ||
Decrease in net assets from distributions | (66,552,159 | ) | (34,279,203 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions (Note 5) | 62,169,196 | (60,229,187 | ) | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | (49,444,295 | ) | (9,399,109 | ) | ||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 661,038,281 | 670,437,390 | ||||
End of period | $ | 611,593,986 | $ | 661,038,281 |
(1) | Prior period presentation has been updated to reflect the current period combination of distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains. Distributions from net investment income were $(785,449), $(64,889) and $(11) for Investor Class, I Class and R5 Class, respectively. Distributions from net realized gains were $(29,880,393), $(1,245,832), $(1,379,611), $(87,493), $(829,884) and $(5,641) for Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class, respectively. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
21
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. Small Company Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital growth by investing primarily in common stocks of small companies.
The fund offers the Investor Class, I Class, A Class, C Class, R Class and R5 Class. The A Class may incur an initial sales charge. The A Class and C Class may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. Exchange-traded futures contracts are valued at the settlement price as provided by the appropriate exchange.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price
22
of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Securities lending income is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Segregated Assets — In accordance with the 1940 Act, the fund segregates assets on its books and records to cover certain types of investment securities and other financial instruments. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities segregated to ensure the fund designates a sufficient amount of liquid assets, marked-to-market daily. The fund may also receive assets or be required to pledge assets at the custodian bank or with a broker for collateral requirements.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Multiple Class — All shares of the fund represent an equal pro rata interest in the net assets of the class to which such shares belong, and have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the fund are allocated to each class of shares based on their relative net assets.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid quarterly. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually.
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
Securities Lending — Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street Bank & Trust Co. serves as securities lending agent to the fund pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the fund to risks such as: the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the fund may experience delays in recovery of
23
the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the fund may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge collateral in the form of cash and/or securities. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the fund in the case of default of any securities borrowed. Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. The loans may also be secured by U.S. government securities in an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned, plus accrued interest and dividends, determined on a daily basis and adjusted accordingly. By lending securities, the fund seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at period end, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2019.
Remaining Contractual Maturity of Agreements | ||||||||||||
Overnight and Continuous | <30 days | Between 30 & 90 days | >90 days | Total | ||||||||
Securities Lending Transactions(1) | ||||||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 5,814,034 | — | — | — | $ | 5,814,034 | |||||
Gross amount of recognized liabilities for securities lending transactions | $ | 5,814,034 |
(1) | Amount represents the payable for cash collateral received for securities on loan. This will generally be in the Overnight and Continuous column as the securities are typically callable on demand. |
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS), and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC. Various funds issued by American Century Asset Allocation Portfolios, Inc. own, in aggregate, 17% of the shares of the fund.
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee) per class. The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except distribution and service fees, brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on each class's daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The difference in the fee among the classes is a result of their separate arrangements for non-Rule 12b-1 shareholder services. It is not the result of any difference in advisory or custodial fees or other expenses related to the management of the fund’s assets, which do not vary by class. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The Investment Category Fee range, the Complex Fee range and the effective annual management fee for each class for the period ended June 30, 2019 are as follows:
Investment Category Fee Range | Complex Fee Range | Effective Annual Management Fee | |
Investor Class | 0.5380% to 0.7200% | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.86% |
I Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.66% | |
A Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.86% | |
C Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.86% | |
R Class | 0.2500% to 0.3100% | 0.86% | |
R5 Class | 0.0500% to 0.1100% | 0.66% |
24
Distribution and Service Fees — The Board of Directors has adopted a separate Master Distribution and Individual Shareholder Services Plan for each of the A Class, C Class and R Class (collectively the plans), pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act. The plans provide that the A Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.25%. The plans provide that the C Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 1.00%, of which 0.25% is paid for individual shareholder services and 0.75% is paid for distribution services. The plans provide that the R Class will pay ACIS an annual distribution and service fee of 0.50%. The fees are computed and accrued daily based on each class’s daily net assets and paid monthly in arrears. The fees are used to pay financial intermediaries for distribution and individual shareholder services. Fees incurred under the plans during the period ended June 30, 2019 are detailed in the Statement of Operations.
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $2,064,317 and $7,269,304, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $1,174,509 in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $611,909,720 and $622,110,899, respectively.
25
5. Capital Share Transactions
Transactions in shares of the fund were as follows:
Year ended June 30, 2019 | Year ended June 30, 2018 | |||||||||
Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | |||||||
Investor Class/Shares Authorized | 340,000,000 | 340,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 8,566,116 | $ | 120,535,946 | 7,270,277 | $ | 111,592,178 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 4,843,836 | 59,918,460 | 1,991,057 | 30,226,281 | ||||||
Redeemed | (7,430,997 | ) | (105,877,692 | ) | (12,109,286 | ) | (189,122,443 | ) | ||
5,978,955 | 74,576,714 | (2,847,952 | ) | (47,303,984 | ) | |||||
I Class/Shares Authorized | 35,000,000 | 35,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 681,560 | 9,730,626 | 538,945 | 8,483,548 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 171,734 | 2,150,512 | 85,455 | 1,303,311 | ||||||
Redeemed | (1,157,692 | ) | (16,981,008 | ) | (661,717 | ) | (10,287,095 | ) | ||
(304,398 | ) | (5,099,870 | ) | (37,317 | ) | (500,236 | ) | |||
A Class/Shares Authorized | 35,000,000 | 35,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 219,970 | 3,035,504 | 249,098 | 3,779,255 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 134,925 | 1,621,800 | 77,935 | 1,156,559 | ||||||
Redeemed | (713,257 | ) | (10,045,216 | ) | (955,491 | ) | (14,557,608 | ) | ||
(358,362 | ) | (5,387,912 | ) | (628,458 | ) | (9,621,794 | ) | |||
C Class/Shares Authorized | 15,000,000 | 15,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 17,797 | 249,506 | 30,730 | 452,208 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 15,968 | 182,677 | 5,737 | 82,103 | ||||||
Redeemed | (41,538 | ) | (530,641 | ) | (24,649 | ) | (363,944 | ) | ||
(7,773 | ) | (98,458 | ) | 11,818 | 170,367 | |||||
R Class/Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 207,467 | 2,748,218 | 271,949 | 4,056,105 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 104,398 | 1,223,547 | 46,547 | 677,257 | ||||||
Redeemed | (446,703 | ) | (5,902,157 | ) | (525,637 | ) | (7,911,493 | ) | ||
(134,838 | ) | (1,930,392 | ) | (207,141 | ) | (3,178,131 | ) | |||
R5 Class/Shares Authorized | 50,000,000 | 50,000,000 | ||||||||
Sold | 6,511 | 91,514 | 12,393 | 198,939 | ||||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 1,904 | 23,818 | 370 | 5,652 | ||||||
Redeemed | (455 | ) | (6,218 | ) | – | – | ||||
7,960 | 109,114 | 12,763 | 204,591 | |||||||
Net increase (decrease) | 5,181,544 | $ | 62,169,196 | (3,696,287 | ) | $ | (60,229,187 | ) |
26
6. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 602,477,188 | — | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments | 6,070 | $ | 9,465,452 | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments - Securities Lending Collateral | 5,814,034 | — | — | |||||
$ | 608,297,292 | $ | 9,465,452 | — |
7. Derivative Instruments
Equity Price Risk — The fund is subject to equity price risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. A fund may enter into futures contracts based on an equity index in order to manage its exposure to changes in market conditions. A fund may purchase futures contracts to gain exposure to increases in market value or sell futures contracts to protect against a decline in market value. Upon entering into a futures contract, a fund is required to deposit either cash or securities in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract value (initial margin). Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received daily, in cash, by a fund. The variation margin is equal to the daily change in the contract value and is recorded as unrealized gains and losses. A fund recognizes a realized gain or loss when the contract is closed or expires. Net realized and unrealized gains or losses occurring during the holding period of futures contracts are a component of net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on futures contracts, respectively. One of the risks of entering into futures contracts is the possibility that the change in value of the contract may not correlate with the changes in value of the underlying securities. During the period, the fund participated in equity price risk derivative instruments for temporary investment purposes.
At period end, the fund did not have any derivative instruments disclosed on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the year ended June 30, 2019, the effect of equity price risk derivative instruments on the Statement of Operations was $(341,986) in net realized gain (loss) on futures contract transactions.
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8. Risk Factors
The fund invests in common stocks of small companies. Because of this, the fund may be subject to greater risk and market fluctuations than a fund investing in larger, more established companies.
9. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 7,819,252 | $ | 850,349 | ||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 58,732,907 | $ | 33,428,854 |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 585,963,803 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 72,639,336 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (40,840,395 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | $ | 31,798,941 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $ | 1,241,700 | |
Post-October capital loss deferral | $ | (20,384,844 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable
primarily to return of capital dividends received.
Loss deferrals represent certain qualified losses that the fund has elected to treat as having been incurred in the following fiscal year for federal income tax purposes.
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Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $16.17 | 0.04 | (1.39) | (1.35) | (0.01) | (1.53) | (1.54) | $13.28 | (7.66)% | 0.87% | 0.30% | 99% | $566,025 | ||
2018 | $15.04 | 0.02 | 1.91 | 1.93 | (0.02) | (0.78) | (0.80) | $16.17 | 13.18% | 0.86% | 0.11% | 92% | $592,615 | ||
2017 | $12.46 | 0.05 | 2.58 | 2.63 | (0.05) | — | (0.05) | $15.04 | 21.19% | 0.87% | 0.37% | 90% | $594,198 | ||
2016 | $13.68 | 0.04 | (1.22) | (1.18) | (0.04) | — | (0.04) | $12.46 | (8.63)% | 0.88% | 0.36% | 93% | $654,517 | ||
2015 | $13.10 | 0.03 | 0.56 | 0.59 | (0.01) | — | (0.01) | $13.68 | 4.51% | 0.87% | 0.25% | 100% | $464,592 | ||
I Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $16.26 | 0.07 | (1.40) | (1.33) | (0.04) | (1.53) | (1.57) | $13.36 | (7.50)% | 0.67% | 0.50% | 99% | $18,293 | ||
2018 | $15.11 | 0.05 | 1.92 | 1.97 | (0.04) | (0.78) | (0.82) | $16.26 | 13.42% | 0.66% | 0.31% | 92% | $27,213 | ||
2017 | $12.52 | 0.08 | 2.59 | 2.67 | (0.08) | — | (0.08) | $15.11 | 21.41% | 0.67% | 0.57% | 90% | $25,863 | ||
2016 | $13.76 | 0.07 | (1.24) | (1.17) | (0.07) | — | (0.07) | $12.52 | (8.50)% | 0.68% | 0.56% | 93% | $34,094 | ||
2015 | $13.15 | 0.06 | 0.57 | 0.63 | (0.02) | — | (0.02) | $13.76 | 4.77% | 0.67% | 0.45% | 100% | $39,483 | ||
A Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $15.78 | —(3) | (1.36) | (1.36) | — | (1.53) | (1.53) | $12.89 | (7.90)% | 1.12% | 0.05% | 99% | $14,960 | ||
2018 | $14.72 | (0.02) | 1.86 | 1.84 | — | (0.78) | (0.78) | $15.78 | 12.90% | 1.11% | (0.14)% | 92% | $23,970 | ||
2017 | $12.19 | 0.02 | 2.53 | 2.55 | (0.02) | — | (0.02) | $14.72 | 20.85% | 1.12% | 0.12% | 90% | $31,600 | ||
2016 | $13.39 | 0.01 | (1.20) | (1.19) | (0.01) | — | (0.01) | $12.19 | (8.89)% | 1.13% | 0.11% | 93% | $35,153 | ||
2015 | $12.84 | —(3) | 0.55 | 0.55 | —(3) | — | —(3) | $13.39 | 4.30% | 1.12% | 0.00%(4) | 100% | $47,471 |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
C Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $15.16 | (0.10) | (1.31) | (1.41) | — | (1.53) | (1.53) | $12.22 | (8.60)% | 1.87% | (0.70)% | 99% | $1,508 | ||
2018 | $14.27 | (0.13) | 1.80 | 1.67 | — | (0.78) | (0.78) | $15.16 | 12.01% | 1.86% | (0.89)% | 92% | $1,989 | ||
2017 | $11.89 | (0.08) | 2.46 | 2.38 | — | — | — | $14.27 | 20.02% | 1.87% | (0.63)% | 90% | $1,703 | ||
2016 | $13.15 | (0.07) | (1.19) | (1.26) | — | — | — | $11.89 | (9.58)% | 1.88% | (0.64)% | 93% | $1,631 | ||
2015 | $12.70 | (0.09) | 0.54 | 0.45 | — | — | — | $13.15 | 3.54% | 1.87% | (0.75)% | 100% | $1,212 | ||
R Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $15.45 | (0.03) | (1.34) | (1.37) | — | (1.53) | (1.53) | $12.55 | (8.15)% | 1.37% | (0.20)% | 99% | $10,525 | ||
2018 | $14.46 | (0.06) | 1.83 | 1.77 | — | (0.78) | (0.78) | $15.45 | 12.56% | 1.36% | (0.39)% | 92% | $15,038 | ||
2017 | $11.99 | (0.02) | 2.49 | 2.47 | — | — | — | $14.46 | 20.60% | 1.37% | (0.13)% | 90% | $17,067 | ||
2016 | $13.19 | (0.01) | (1.19) | (1.20) | — | — | — | $11.99 | (9.10)% | 1.38% | (0.14)% | 93% | $14,847 | ||
2015 | $12.68 | (0.03) | 0.54 | 0.51 | — | — | — | $13.19 | 4.02% | 1.37% | (0.25)% | 100% | $5,185 | ||
R5 Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $16.27 | 0.07 | (1.40) | (1.33) | (0.04) | (1.53) | (1.57) | $13.37 | (7.49)% | 0.67% | 0.50% | 99% | $282 | ||
2018 | $15.12 | 0.06 | 1.90 | 1.96 | (0.03) | (0.78) | (0.81) | $16.27 | 13.34% | 0.66% | 0.31% | 92% | $213 | ||
2017(5) | $14.90 | 0.02 | 0.20 | 0.22 | — | — | — | $15.12 | 1.48% | 0.67%(6) | 0.51%(6) | 90%(7) | $5 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day and do not reflect applicable sales charges, if any. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
(3) | Per-share amount was less than $0.005. |
(4) | Ratio was less than 0.005%. |
(5) | April 10, 2017 (commencement of sale) through June 30, 2017. |
(6) | Annualized. |
(7) | Portfolio turnover is calculated at the fund level. Percentage indicated was calculated for the year ended June 30, 2017. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of Small Company Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of Small Company Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
32
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
33
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
34
Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
35
Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
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Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was below its benchmark for the one-, three-, five-, and ten-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board discussed the Fund’s performance with the Advisor and was satisfied with the efforts being undertaken by the Advisor. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
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Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer group. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
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Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
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Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
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Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $5,509,140, or up to the maximum amount allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
The fund hereby designates $58,732,907, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund hereby designates $7,387,907 as qualified short-term capital gain distributions for purposes of Internal Revenue Code Section 871 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
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Notes |
42
Notes |
43
Notes |
44
Notes |
45
Notes |
46
Notes |
47
Notes |
48
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92992 1908 |
Annual Report | |
June 30, 2019 | |
Utilities Fund | |
Investor Class (BULIX) |
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the fund or your financial intermediary electronically by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by calling or sending an email request to your appropriate contacts as listed on the back cover of this report. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the fund complex/your financial intermediary.
Table of Contents |
President's Letter | 2 | |
Performance | 3 | |
Portfolio Commentary | ||
Fund Characteristics | ||
Shareholder Fee Example | ||
Schedule of Investments | ||
Statement of Assets and Liabilities | ||
Statement of Operations | ||
Statement of Changes in Net Assets | ||
Notes to Financial Statements | ||
Financial Highlights | ||
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | ||
Management | ||
Approval of Management Agreement | ||
Additional Information |
Any opinions expressed in this report reflect those of the author as of the date of the report, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of American Century Investments® or any other person in the American Century Investments organization. Any such opinions are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and American Century Investments disclaims any responsibility to update such opinions. These opinions may not be relied upon as investment advice and, because investment decisions made by American Century Investments funds are based on numerous factors, may not be relied upon as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any American Century Investments fund. Security examples are used for representational purposes only and are not intended as recommendations to purchase or sell securities. Performance information for comparative indices and securities is provided to American Century Investments by third party vendors. To the best of American Century Investments’ knowledge, such information is accurate at the time of printing.
President’s Letter |
Jonathan Thomas
Dear Investor:
Thank you for reviewing this annual report for the period ended June 30, 2019. Annual reports help convey important information about fund returns, including market factors that affected performance during the reporting period. For additional investment and market insights, we encourage you to visit our website, americancentury.com.
Markets Overcame Heightened Volatility
Most broad large- and mid-cap stock indices ended the 12-month period with gains. However, these positive results masked some severe volatility, which led to wide performance swings. For example, the S&P 500 Index returned -6.85% in the first half of the period and 18.54% in the second half, leaving the index up 10.42% for the year. Even more dramatic, the S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index returned -21.91% in the first half of the reporting period, 13.34% in the second half, and -11.49% overall.
Fed’s Flip Fueled Investor Optimism
In the first half, mounting concerns about slowing global economic and earnings growth and Federal Reserve (Fed) policy soured investor sentiment. After raising rates in September, the Fed hiked again in December and delivered a surprisingly hawkish rate-hike outlook that worried investors and fueled a steep sell-off among riskier assets. Meanwhile, the risk-off climate sparked a flight to quality. Treasury yields plunged, triggering a rally among perceived safe-haven assets.
The new year brought a renewed sense of stability to financial markets and a key policy pivot from the Fed. The central bank abruptly and unexpectedly ended its rate-hike campaign and adopted a dovish tone amid moderating global growth and inflation. Additionally, investors’ worst-case fears about growth, trade and corporate earnings eased. Equity valuations appeared attractive, and a rally ensued. At the same time, Treasury yields continued to fall on moderating global growth data, muted inflation and accommodative central bank policy, which supported continued gains for interest rate-sensitive assets.
Looking ahead, we expect volatility to remain a formidable factor as investors react to global growth and trade trends, central bank policy and geopolitical developments. We believe this scenario underscores the importance of using professionally managed portfolios in pursuit of your investment goals. We appreciate your continued trust and confidence in us.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Thomas
President and Chief Executive Officer
American Century Investments
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Performance |
Total Returns as of June 30, 2019 | |||||
Average Annual Returns | |||||
Ticker Symbol | 1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Inception Date | |
Investor Class | BULIX | 12.26% | 6.66% | 10.44% | 3/1/93 |
Russell 3000 Utilities Index | — | 16.72% | 8.26% | 11.45% | — |
S&P 500 Index | — | 10.42% | 10.71% | 14.69% | — |
Growth of $10,000 Over 10 Years |
$10,000 investment made June 30, 2009 |
Value on June 30, 2019 | |
Investor Class — $26,998 | |
Russell 3000 Utilities Index — $29,592 | |
S&P 500 Index — $39,416 | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | |
Investor Class | 0.67% |
The total annual fund operating expenses shown is as stated in the fund’s prospectus current as of the date of this report. The prospectus may vary from the expense ratio shown elsewhere in this report because it is based on a different time period, includes acquired fund fees and expenses, and, if applicable, does not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements.
Data presented reflect past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Current performance may be higher or lower than the performance shown. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and redemption value may be more or less than original cost. Data assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains, and none of the charts reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. To obtain performance data current to the most recent month end, please call 1-800-345-2021 or visit americancentury.com. For additional information about the fund, please consult the prospectus.
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Portfolio Commentary |
Portfolio Managers: Yulin Long and Tsuyoshi Ozaki
Performance Summary
Utilities returned 12.26% for the 12 months ended June 30, 2019, trailing the 16.72% return of its benchmark, the Russell 3000 Utilities Index. By comparison, the S&P 500 Index, a broad market measure, returned 10.42%.
The Russell 3000 Utilities Index is primarily made up of utilities and communication services stocks but includes smaller allocations to other sectors. The utilities sector made up more than 60% of the index on average during the reporting period and contributed almost 12% of the index’s total return. The communication services sector, which represented nearly 40% of the index on average, generated roughly 5% of the index return. Information technology stocks, a tiny segment of the index, contributed only 0.04%. Compared with the Russell 3000 Utilities Index, the portfolio's underperformance was largely a result of stock selection decisions in the utilities sector.
Equity Volatility and Falling Rates Drive Utility Stock Performance
U.S. utility stock performance was supported during the period by three factors: investor demand for low-volatility, higher-yielding stocks, falling interest rates and revenue increases to finance large capital spending programs. Due to their sizable dividends and consistent revenue streams, utility stocks are often seen as comparatively stable investments when economic and earnings growth falter and stock prices fluctuate. In the fourth quarter of 2018 and again in May of 2019, equity markets experienced sharp volatility, which caused many investors to seek defensive stocks. This helped to support prices. Utility stocks are also characterized by their comparatively high and stable dividend payouts. As a result, they are attractive to income-oriented investors as an alternative or complement to bonds, particularly in a low rate environment. When bond yields fall, as they did during the reporting period, utility stocks become comparatively more attractive and outperform. In addition, utilities companies can carry significant amounts of debt to finance large capital spending programs, which means lower interest rates decrease their borrowing costs. These capital spending programs help facilities to become more efficient and environmentally friendly, and also allow regulated utilities to raise customer prices, increasing their revenue.
Electric Utilities Stocks Detracted the Most
The main source of weakness relative to the benchmark was electric utilities companies. PG&E was among the largest individual detractors from performance. The stock price fell precipitously in November due to potential losses associated with wildfire liabilities in California. Reduced exposure to NextEra Energy was also among the top detracting positions from overall performance. A position in Edison International also provided a headwind.
Positioning in the gas utilities industry also detracted from relative results. Most notably, a position in National Fuel Gas was among the leading detractors from portfolio results. The stock price fluctuated during the period, dropping the final few months of the fiscal year. Positioning in multi-utilities also detracted, where Public Service Enterprise Group and WEC Energy Group were among the leading individual detractors. Positioning in the water utilities also detracted from relative results. The portfolio had no exposure to the industry, which was among the better-performing segments of the benchmark.
Communication Services Another Source of Weakness
Stock selection in the communication services sector also detracted from relative performance. Wireless telecommunication services firms Telephone & Data Systems and Spok Holdings were
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leading sources of weakness in the sector. Wireless companies have recently experienced increased costs associated with investments in 5G technology. These costs have reduced margins for some companies, weighing on stock prices. We exited our position in Telephone & Data Systems. Elsewhere in the sector, diversified telecommunication services company CenturyLink was among the leading individual detractors from portfolio performance. The stock price started a slide in late August, hurt by management turnover, earnings that missed estimates and dividend reductions.
Key Contributors Varied
Positioning within the information technology sector contributed to relative returns. Software company j2 Global made a significant contribution to relative performance, as did having no exposure to network infrastructure company Zayo Group Holdings. Although the utilities sector as a whole detracted, many notable individual contributions came from stock choices within the sector. AES, Portland General Electric and Ameren all made significant contributions to returns. In communication services, it was beneficial to underweight AT&T. We have significant exposure to AT&T, but less than the benchmark. The stock has generated significant free cash flow and has raised its dividend every year since 1984. AT&T underperformed during the period as investors worried about the company’s high level of debt issued in recent years and the intensity of its capital spending program.
Portfolio Positioning
We employ a structured, disciplined investment approach. We incorporate both growth and valuation measures into our stock selection process and attempt to balance the portfolio’s risk and expected return. We continue to overweight utilities and information technology stocks relative to the benchmark. The communication services sector is significantly underweight because of only modest exposure to diversified telecommunication services firms relative to the benchmark.
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Fund Characteristics |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |
Top Ten Holdings | % of net assets |
AT&T, Inc. | 12.5% |
Verizon Communications, Inc. | 11.1% |
Southern Co. (The) | 4.9% |
PPL Corp. | 4.7% |
Exelon Corp. | 4.5% |
American Electric Power Co., Inc. | 4.5% |
FirstEnergy Corp. | 4.3% |
Entergy Corp. | 4.3% |
Pinnacle West Capital Corp. | 3.5% |
Edison International | 3.4% |
Sub-Industry Allocation | % of net assets |
Electric Utilities | 47.8% |
Integrated Telecommunication Services | 23.6% |
Multi-Utilities | 19.7% |
Independent Power Producers and Energy Traders | 2.8% |
Gas Utilities | 2.5% |
Application Software | 1.6% |
Wireless Telecommunication Services | 0.6% |
Alternative Carriers | 0.4% |
Cash and Equivalents* | 1.0% |
*Includes temporary cash investments and other assets and liabilities. | |
Types of Investments in Portfolio | % of net assets |
Common Stocks | 99.0% |
Temporary Cash Investments | 0.9% |
Other Assets and Liabilities | 0.1% |
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Shareholder Fee Example |
Fund shareholders may incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption/exchange fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example is based on an investment of $1,000 made at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019.
Actual Expenses
The table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses for each class. You may use the information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. First, identify the share class you own. Then simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
If you hold Investor Class shares of any American Century Investments fund, or I Class shares of the American Century Diversified Bond Fund, in an American Century Investments account (i.e., not a financial intermediary or retirement plan account), American Century Investments may charge you a $12.50 semiannual account maintenance fee if the value of those shares is less than $10,000. We will redeem shares automatically in one of your accounts to pay the $12.50 fee. In determining your total eligible investment amount, we will include your investments in all personal accounts (including American Century Investments Brokerage accounts) registered under your Social Security number. Personal accounts include individual accounts, joint accounts, UGMA/UTMA accounts, personal trusts, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and IRAs (including traditional, Roth, Rollover, SEP-, SARSEP- and SIMPLE-IRAs), and certain other retirement accounts. If you have only business, business retirement, employer-sponsored or American Century Investments Brokerage accounts, you are currently not subject to this fee. If you are subject to the Account Maintenance Fee, your account value could be reduced by the fee amount.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the actual expense ratio of each class of your fund and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the actual return of a fund’s share class. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption/exchange fees. Therefore, the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
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Beginning Account Value 1/1/19 | Ending Account Value 6/30/19 | Expenses Paid During Period(1) 1/1/19 - 6/30/19 | Annualized Expense Ratio(1) | |
Actual | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,107.80 | $3.50 | 0.67% |
Hypothetical | ||||
Investor Class | $1,000 | $1,021.47 | $3.36 | 0.67% |
(1) | Expenses are equal to the class's annualized expense ratio listed in the table above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181, the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year, divided by 365, to reflect the one-half year period. Annualized expense ratio reflects actual expenses, including any applicable fee waivers or expense reimbursements and excluding any acquired fund fees and expenses. |
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Schedule of Investments |
JUNE 30, 2019
Shares | Value | |||
COMMON STOCKS — 99.0% | ||||
Alternative Carriers — 0.4% | ||||
CenturyLink, Inc. | 139,408 | $ | 1,639,438 | |
Application Software — 1.6% | ||||
j2 Global, Inc. | 71,955 | 6,396,080 | ||
Electric Utilities — 47.8% | ||||
American Electric Power Co., Inc. | 206,513 | 18,175,209 | ||
Duke Energy Corp. | 66,715 | 5,886,932 | ||
Edison International | 207,762 | 14,005,236 | ||
El Paso Electric Co. | 43,595 | 2,851,113 | ||
Entergy Corp. | 168,791 | 17,373,658 | ||
Evergy, Inc. | 88,164 | 5,303,065 | ||
Exelon Corp. | 384,571 | 18,436,334 | ||
FirstEnergy Corp. | 409,396 | 17,526,243 | ||
Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. | 77,959 | 3,395,114 | ||
NextEra Energy, Inc. | 51,857 | 10,623,425 | ||
OGE Energy Corp. | 171,820 | 7,312,659 | ||
PG&E Corp.(1) | 106,633 | 2,444,028 | ||
Pinnacle West Capital Corp. | 149,415 | 14,058,457 | ||
PNM Resources, Inc. | 67,563 | 3,439,632 | ||
Portland General Electric Co. | 257,420 | 13,944,441 | ||
PPL Corp. | 610,468 | 18,930,613 | ||
Southern Co. (The) | 363,559 | 20,097,542 | ||
Spark Energy, Inc., Class A | 71,126 | 795,900 | ||
194,599,601 | ||||
Gas Utilities — 2.5% | ||||
National Fuel Gas Co. | 193,289 | 10,195,995 | ||
Independent Power Producers and Energy Traders — 2.8% | ||||
AES Corp. | 463,144 | 7,762,294 | ||
NRG Energy, Inc. | 100,935 | 3,544,837 | ||
11,307,131 | ||||
Integrated Telecommunication Services — 23.6% | ||||
AT&T, Inc. | 1,521,542 | 50,986,872 | ||
Verizon Communications, Inc. | 788,976 | 45,074,199 | ||
96,061,071 | ||||
Multi-Utilities — 19.7% | ||||
Ameren Corp. | 94,672 | 7,110,814 | ||
Black Hills Corp. | 66,737 | 5,216,831 | ||
CenterPoint Energy, Inc. | 350,403 | 10,032,038 | ||
Consolidated Edison, Inc. | 37,806 | 3,314,830 | ||
Dominion Energy, Inc. | 80,156 | 6,197,662 | ||
DTE Energy Co. | 46,732 | 5,976,088 | ||
MDU Resources Group, Inc. | 126,871 | 3,273,272 |
9
Shares | Value | |||
NorthWestern Corp. | 120,417 | $ | 8,688,087 | |
Public Service Enterprise Group, Inc. | 219,083 | 12,886,462 | ||
Sempra Energy | 85,348 | 11,730,229 | ||
Unitil Corp. | 20,002 | 1,197,920 | ||
WEC Energy Group, Inc. | 53,025 | 4,420,694 | ||
80,044,927 | ||||
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.6% | ||||
Spok Holdings, Inc. | 101,659 | 1,528,951 | ||
T-Mobile US, Inc.(1) | 14,015 | 1,039,072 | ||
2,568,023 | ||||
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $319,046,486) | 402,812,266 | |||
TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS — 0.9% | ||||
Repurchase Agreement, BMO Capital Markets Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 1.125% - 2.75%, 12/31/19 - 2/15/29, valued at $3,294,053), in a joint trading account at 2.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $3,234,816) | 3,234,210 | |||
Repurchase Agreement, Fixed Income Clearing Corp., (collateralized by various U.S. Treasury obligations, 0.375%, 7/15/27, valued at $628,238), at 1.25%, dated 6/28/19, due 7/1/19 (Delivery value $613,064) | 613,000 | |||
TOTAL TEMPORARY CASH INVESTMENTS (Cost $3,847,210) | 3,847,210 | |||
TOTAL INVESTMENT SECURITIES — 99.9% (Cost $322,893,696) | 406,659,476 | |||
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES — 0.1% | 288,716 | |||
TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0% | $ | 406,948,192 |
NOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS |
(1) | Non-income producing. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
10
Statement of Assets and Liabilities |
JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Assets | |||
Investment securities, at value (cost of $322,893,696) | $ | 406,659,476 | |
Receivable for capital shares sold | 53,323 | ||
Dividends and interest receivable | 514,734 | ||
407,227,533 | |||
Liabilities | |||
Disbursements in excess of demand deposit cash | 1,306 | ||
Payable for capital shares redeemed | 57,575 | ||
Accrued management fees | 220,460 | ||
279,341 | |||
Net Assets | $ | 406,948,192 | |
Investor Class Capital Shares, $0.01 Par Value | |||
Shares authorized | 260,000,000 | ||
Shares outstanding | 22,761,681 | ||
Net Asset Value Per Share | $ | 17.88 | |
Net Assets Consist of: | |||
Capital (par value and paid-in surplus) | $ | 329,054,637 | |
Distributable earnings | 77,893,555 | ||
$ | 406,948,192 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
11
Statement of Operations |
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 | |||
Investment Income (Loss) | |||
Income: | |||
Dividends | $ | 15,689,797 | |
Interest | 56,396 | ||
15,746,193 | |||
Expenses: | |||
Management fees | 2,682,612 | ||
Directors' fees and expenses | 28,282 | ||
Other expenses | 4,103 | ||
2,714,997 | |||
Net investment income (loss) | 13,031,196 | ||
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | |||
Net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions | 5,319,519 | ||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on: | |||
Investments | 28,451,353 | ||
Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | (137 | ) | |
28,451,216 | |||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) | 33,770,735 | ||
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations | $ | 46,801,931 |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
12
Statement of Changes in Net Assets |
YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 AND JUNE 30, 2018 | ||||||
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets | June 30, 2019 | June 30, 2018 | ||||
Operations | ||||||
Net investment income (loss) | $ | 13,031,196 | $ | 15,662,765 | ||
Net realized gain (loss) | 5,319,519 | 948,911 | ||||
Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) | 28,451,216 | (17,700,487 | ) | |||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 46,801,931 | (1,088,811 | ) | |||
Distributions to Shareholders | ||||||
From earnings(1) | (22,923,015 | ) | (35,125,331 | ) | ||
Capital Share Transactions | ||||||
Proceeds from shares sold | 54,018,722 | 51,770,202 | ||||
Proceeds from reinvestment of distributions | 21,790,113 | 33,504,690 | ||||
Payments for shares redeemed | (98,583,216 | ) | (184,096,682 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions | (22,774,381 | ) | (98,821,790 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in net assets | 1,104,535 | (135,035,932 | ) | |||
Net Assets | ||||||
Beginning of period | 405,843,657 | 540,879,589 | ||||
End of period | $ | 406,948,192 | $ | 405,843,657 | ||
Transactions in Shares of the Fund | ||||||
Sold | 3,095,555 | 2,935,538 | ||||
Issued in reinvestment of distributions | 1,249,905 | 1,910,190 | ||||
Redeemed | (5,669,320 | ) | (10,579,560 | ) | ||
Net increase (decrease) in shares of the fund | (1,323,860 | ) | (5,733,832 | ) |
(1) | Prior period presentation has been updated to reflect the current period combination of distributions to shareholders from net investment income and net realized gains. Distributions from net investment income were $(15,058,609). Distributions from net realized gains were $(20,066,722). |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
13
Notes to Financial Statements |
JUNE 30, 2019
1. Organization
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. (the corporation) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as an open-end management investment company and is organized as a Maryland corporation. Utilities Fund (the fund) is one fund in a series issued by the corporation. The fund’s investment objectives are to seek current income and long-term growth of capital and income. The fund invests at least 80% of its assets in equity securities of companies engaged in the utilities industry. The fund offers the Investor Class.
2. Significant Accounting Policies
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the fund in preparation of its financial statements. The fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. This may require management to make certain estimates and assumptions at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Management evaluated the impact of events or transactions occurring through the date the financial statements were issued that would merit recognition or disclosure.
Investment Valuations — The fund determines the fair value of its investments and computes its net asset value per share at the close of regular trading (usually 4 p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day the NYSE is open. The Board of Directors has adopted valuation policies and procedures to guide the investment advisor in the fund’s investment valuation process and to provide methodologies for the oversight of the fund’s pricing function.
Equity securities that are listed or traded on a domestic securities exchange are valued at the last reported sales price or at the official closing price as provided by the exchange. Equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges are generally valued at the closing price of such securities on the exchange where primarily traded or at the close of the NYSE, if that is earlier. If no last sales price is reported, or if local convention or regulation so provides, the mean of the latest bid and asked prices may be used. Securities traded over-the-counter are valued at the mean of the latest bid and asked prices, the last sales price, or the official closing price. Equity securities initially expressed in local currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the mean of the appropriate currency exchange rate at the close of the NYSE as provided by an independent pricing service.
Open-end management investment companies are valued at the reported net asset value per share. Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value.
If the fund determines that the market price for an investment is not readily available or the valuation methods mentioned above do not reflect an investment’s fair value, such investment is valued as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors or its delegate, in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. In its determination of fair value, the fund may review several factors including, but not limited to, market information regarding the specific investment or comparable investments and correlation with other investment types, futures indices or general market indicators. Circumstances that may cause the fund to use these procedures to value an investment include, but are not limited to: an investment has been declared in default or is distressed; trading in a security has been suspended during the trading day or a security is not actively trading on its principal exchange; prices received from a regular pricing source are deemed unreliable; or there is a foreign market holiday and no trading occurred.
The fund monitors for significant events occurring after the close of an investment’s primary exchange but before the fund’s net asset value per share is determined. Significant events may include, but are not limited to: corporate announcements and transactions; governmental action and political unrest that could impact a specific investment or an investment sector; or armed conflicts, natural disasters and similar events that could affect investments in a specific country or region. The fund also monitors for significant fluctuations between domestic and foreign markets, as evidenced by the U.S. market or such other indicators that the Board of Directors, or its delegate, deems appropriate. The fund may apply a model-derived factor to the closing price of equity securities traded on foreign securities exchanges. The factor is based on observable market data as provided by an independent pricing service.
14
Security Transactions — Security transactions are accounted for as of the trade date. Net realized gains and losses are determined on the identified cost basis, which is also used for federal income tax purposes.
Investment Income — Dividend income less foreign taxes withheld, if any, is recorded as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or long-term capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The fund may estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered nontaxable distributions or long-term capital gain distributions for income tax purposes. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums.
Foreign Currency Translations — All assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at prevailing exchange rates at period end. The fund may enter into spot foreign currency exchange contracts to facilitate transactions denominated in a foreign currency. Purchases and sales of investment securities, dividend and interest income, spot foreign currency exchange contracts, and expenses are translated at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. Net realized and unrealized foreign currency exchange gains or losses related to investment securities are a component of net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions and change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments, respectively.
Repurchase Agreements — The fund may enter into repurchase agreements with institutions that American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM) (the investment advisor) has determined are creditworthy pursuant to criteria adopted by the Board of Directors. The fund requires that the collateral, represented by securities, received in a repurchase transaction be transferred to the custodian in a manner sufficient to enable the fund to obtain those securities in the event of a default under the repurchase agreement. ACIM monitors, on a daily basis, the securities transferred to ensure the value, including accrued interest, of the securities under each repurchase agreement is equal to or greater than amounts owed to the fund under each repurchase agreement.
Joint Trading Account — Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund, along with certain other funds in the American Century Investments family of funds, may transfer uninvested cash balances into a joint trading account. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements that are collateralized by U.S. Treasury or Agency obligations.
Income Tax Status — It is the fund’s policy to distribute substantially all net investment income and net realized gains to shareholders and to otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes. The fund files U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax returns as applicable. The fund's tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant taxing authority until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years from the date of filing but can be longer in certain jurisdictions. At this time, management believes there are no uncertain tax positions which, based on their technical merit, would not be sustained upon examination and for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Distributions to Shareholders — Distributions from net investment income, if any, are generally declared and paid quarterly. Distributions from net realized gains, if any, are generally declared and paid annually.
Indemnifications — Under the corporation’s organizational documents, its officers and directors are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. In addition, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against a fund. The risk of material loss from such claims is considered by management to be remote.
3. Fees and Transactions with Related Parties
Certain officers and directors of the corporation are also officers and/or directors of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC). The corporation’s investment advisor, ACIM, the corporation's distributor, American Century Investment Services, Inc., and the corporation’s transfer agent, American Century Services, LLC, are wholly owned, directly or indirectly, by ACC.
15
Management Fees — The corporation has entered into a management agreement with ACIM, under which ACIM provides the fund with investment advisory and management services in exchange for a single, unified management fee (the fee). The agreement provides that all expenses of managing and operating the fund, except brokerage expenses, taxes, interest, fees and expenses of the independent directors (including legal counsel fees), and extraordinary expenses, will be paid by ACIM. The fee is computed and accrued daily based on the daily net assets of the fund and paid monthly in arrears. The fee consists of (1) an Investment Category Fee based on the daily net assets of the fund and certain other accounts managed by the investment advisor that are in the same broad investment category as the fund and (2) a Complex Fee based on the assets of all the funds in the American Century Investments family of funds. The rates for the Investment Category Fee range from 0.3380% to 0.5200% and the rates for the Complex Fee range from 0.2500% to 0.3100%. The effective annual management fee for the period ended June 30, 2019 was 0.66%.
Directors' Fees and Expenses — The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the investment advisor’s management and operations of the fund. The directors receive detailed information about the fund and its investment advisor regularly throughout the year, and meet at least quarterly with management of the investment advisor to review reports about fund operations. The fund’s officers do not receive compensation from the fund.
Interfund Transactions — The fund may enter into security transactions with other American Century Investments funds and other client accounts of the investment advisor, in accordance with the 1940 Act rules and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors. The rules and procedures require, among other things, that these transactions be effected at the independent current market price of the security. During the period, the interfund purchases and sales were $826,003 and $5,328,427, respectively. The effect of interfund transactions on the Statement of Operations was $325,578 in net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions.
4. Investment Transactions
Purchases and sales of investment securities, excluding short-term investments, for the period ended June 30, 2019 were $257,657,843 and $290,910,257, respectively.
5. Fair Value Measurements
The fund’s investments valuation process is based on several considerations and may use multiple inputs to determine the fair value of the investments held by the fund. In conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, the inputs used to determine a valuation are classified into three broad levels.
• | Level 1 valuation inputs consist of unadjusted quoted prices in an active market for identical investments. |
• | Level 2 valuation inputs consist of direct or indirect observable market data (including quoted prices for comparable investments, evaluations of subsequent market events, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). These inputs also consist of quoted prices for identical investments initially expressed in local currencies that are adjusted through translation into U.S. dollars. |
• | Level 3 valuation inputs consist of unobservable data (including a fund’s own assumptions). |
The level classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair valuation measurement. The valuation inputs are not necessarily an indication of the risks associated with investing in these securities or other financial instruments.
The following is a summary of the level classifications as of period end. The Schedule of Investments provides additional information on the fund’s portfolio holdings.
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | ||||||
Assets | ||||||||
Investment Securities | ||||||||
Common Stocks | $ | 402,812,266 | — | — | ||||
Temporary Cash Investments | — | $ | 3,847,210 | — | ||||
$ | 402,812,266 | $ | 3,847,210 | — |
16
6. Risk Factors
The fund concentrates its investments in a narrow segment of the total market. Because of this, the fund may be subject to greater risk and market fluctuations than a portfolio representing a broader range of industries.
7. Federal Tax Information
The tax character of distributions paid during the years ended June 30, 2019 and June 30, 2018 were as follows:
2019 | 2018 | |||||
Distributions Paid From | ||||||
Ordinary income | $ | 14,317,731 | $ | 18,583,068 | ||
Long-term capital gains | $ | 8,605,284 | $ | 16,542,263 |
The book-basis character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from their ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. These differences reflect the differing character of certain income items and net realized gains and losses for financial statement and tax purposes, and may result in reclassification among certain capital accounts on the financial statements.
As of period end, the federal tax cost of investments and the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Federal tax cost of investments | $ | 325,808,364 | |
Gross tax appreciation of investments | $ | 83,184,239 | |
Gross tax depreciation of investments | (2,333,127 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) of investments | 80,851,112 | ||
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) on translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies | (1,011 | ) | |
Net tax appreciation (depreciation) | $ | 80,850,101 | |
Undistributed ordinary income | $ | 193,802 | |
Accumulated long-term gains | $ | 33,980 | |
Post-October capital loss deferral | $ | (3,184,328 | ) |
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation (depreciation) is attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
Loss deferrals represent certain qualified losses that the fund has elected to treat as having been incurred in the following fiscal year for federal income tax purposes.
17
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Ended June 30 (except as noted) | |||||||||||||||
Per-Share Data | Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||
Income From Investment Operations: | Distributions From: | Ratio to Average Net Assets of: | |||||||||||||
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period | Net Investment Income (Loss)(1) | Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) | Total From Investment Operations | Net Investment Income | Net Realized Gains | Total Distributions | Net Asset Value, End of Period | Total Return(2) | Operating Expenses | Net Investment Income (Loss) | Portfolio Turnover Rate | Net Assets, End of Period (in thousands) | |||
Investor Class | |||||||||||||||
2019 | $16.85 | 0.56 | 1.46 | 2.02 | (0.56) | (0.43) | (0.99) | $17.88 | 12.26% | 0.67% | 3.20% | 64% | $406,948 | ||
2018 | $18.14 | 0.58 | (0.58) | —(3) | (0.56) | (0.73) | (1.29) | $16.85 | (0.06)% | 0.67% | 3.31% | 48% | $405,844 | ||
2017 | $19.35 | 0.59 | (0.48) | 0.11 | (0.58) | (0.74) | (1.32) | $18.14 | 0.61% | 0.67% | 3.17% | 39% | $540,880 | ||
2016 | $16.28 | 0.57 | 3.44 | 4.01 | (0.54) | (0.40) | (0.94) | $19.35 | 25.76% | 0.68% | 3.35% | 36% | $640,342 | ||
2015 | $18.03 | 0.55 | (0.98) | (0.43) | (0.58) | (0.74) | (1.32) | $16.28 | (2.73)% | 0.67% | 3.14% | 40% | $348,382 |
Notes to Financial Highlights |
(1) | Computed using average shares outstanding throughout the period. |
(2) | Total returns are calculated based on the net asset value of the last business day. Total returns for periods less than one year are not annualized. |
(3) | Per-share amount was less than $0.005. |
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Board of Directors of American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. and Shareholders of Utilities Fund
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of Utilities Fund (one of the funds constituting American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc., referred to hereafter as the "Fund") as of June 30, 2019, the related statement of operations for the year ended June 30, 2019, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of June 30, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended June 30, 2019 and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended June 30, 2019 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of June 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
August 16, 2019
We have served as the auditor of one or more investment companies in American Century Investments since 1997.
19
Management |
The Board of Directors
The individuals listed below serve as directors of the funds. Each director will continue to serve in this capacity until death, retirement, resignation or removal from office. The board has adopted a mandatory retirement age for directors who are not “interested persons,” as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act (independent directors). Independent directors shall retire by December 31 of the year in which they reach their 75th birthday; provided, however, that on or after January 1, 2022, independent directors shall retire on December 31 of the year in which they reach their 76th birthday.
Mr. Thomas is an “interested person” because he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of American Century Companies, Inc. (ACC), the parent company of American Century Investment Management, Inc. (ACIM or the advisor). The other directors (more than three-fourths of the total number) are independent. They are not employees, directors or officers of, and have no financial interest in, ACC or any of its wholly owned, direct or indirect, subsidiaries, including ACIM, American Century Investment Services, Inc. (ACIS) and American Century Services, LLC (ACS), and they do not have any other affiliations, positions or relationships that would cause them to be considered “interested persons” under the Investment Company Act. The directors serve in this capacity for eight (in the case of Jonathan S. Thomas, 16; and Ronald J. Gilson, 9) registered investment companies in the American Century Investments family of funds.
The following table presents additional information about the directors. The mailing address for each director other than Mr. Thomas is 1665 Charleston Road, Mountain View, California 94043. The mailing address for Mr. Thomas is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Tanya S. Beder (1955) | Director | Since 2011 | Chairman and CEO, SBCC Group Inc. (independent advisory services) (2006 to present) | 45 | CYS Investments, Inc.; Nabors Industries Ltd. |
Jeremy I. Bulow (1954) | Director | Since 2011 | Professor of Economics, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (1979 to present) | 45 | None |
Anne Casscells (1958) | Director | Since 2016 | Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Aetos Alternatives Management (investment advisory firm) (2001 to present); Lecturer in Accounting, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business (2009 to 2017) | 45 | None |
20
Name (Year of Birth) | Position(s) Held with Funds | Length of Time Served | Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years | Number of American Century Portfolios Overseen by Director | Other Directorships Held During Past 5 Years |
Independent Directors | |||||
Ronald J. Gilson (1946) | Director and Chairman of the Board | Since 1995 (Chairman since 2005) | Charles J. Meyers Professor of Law and Business, Emeritus, Stanford Law School (1979 to 2016); Marc and Eva Stern Professor of Law and Business, Columbia University School of Law (1992 to present) | 50 | None |
Frederick L. A. Grauer (1946) | Director | Since 2008 | Senior Advisor, Credit Sesame, Inc. (credit monitoring firm) (2018 to present); Senior Advisor, Course Hero (an educational technology company) (2015 to present); Senior Advisor, iShares by BlackRock, Inc. (investment management firm) (2013 to 2015) | 45 | None |
Jonathan D. Levin (1972) | Director | Since 2016 | Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean, Graduate School of Business, Stanford University (2016 to present); Professor, Stanford University, (2000 to present); Chair, Department of Economics, Stanford University (2011 to 2014) | 45 | None |
Peter F. Pervere (1947) | Director | Since 2007 | Retired | 45 | None |
John B. Shoven (1947) | Director | Since 2002 | Charles R. Schwab Professor of Economics, Stanford University (1973 to present) | 45 | Cadence Design Systems; Exponent; Financial Engines |
Interested Director | |||||
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President | Since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries | 117 | BioMed Valley Discoveries, Inc. |
The Statement of Additional Information has additional information about the fund's directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
21
Officers
The following table presents certain information about the executive officers of the funds. Each officer serves as an officer for each of the 16 (in the case of Robert J. Leach, 15) investment companies in the American Century family of funds, unless otherwise noted. No officer is compensated for his or her service as an officer of the funds. The listed officers are interested persons of the funds and are appointed or re-appointed on an annual basis. The mailing address for each officer listed below is 4500 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111.
Name (Year of Birth) | Offices with the Funds | Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years |
Jonathan S. Thomas (1963) | Director and President since 2007 | President and Chief Executive Officer, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as Chief Executive Officer, ACS; Executive Vice President, ACIM; Director, ACC, ACIM and other ACC subsidiaries |
R. Wes Campbell (1974) | Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since 2018 | Investment Operations and Investment Accounting, ACS (2000 to present) |
Amy D. Shelton (1964) | Chief Compliance Officer and Vice President since 2014 | Chief Compliance Officer, American Century funds, (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIM (2014 to present); Chief Compliance Officer, ACIS (2009 to present); Vice President, Client Interactions and Marketing, ACIS (2013 to 2014). Also serves as Vice President, ACIS |
Charles A. Etherington (1957) | General Counsel since 2007 and Senior Vice President since 2006 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present); Vice President, ACC (2005 to present); General Counsel, ACC (2007 to present). Also serves as General Counsel, ACIM, ACS, ACIS and other ACC subsidiaries; and Senior Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
C. Jean Wade (1964) | Vice President since 2012 | Senior Vice President, ACS (2017 to present); Vice President, ACS (2000 to 2017) |
Robert J. Leach (1966) | Vice President since 2006 | Vice President, ACS (2000 to present) |
David H. Reinmiller (1963) | Vice President since 2000 | Attorney, ACC (1994 to present). Also serves as Vice President, ACIM and ACS |
Ward D. Stauffer (1960) | Secretary since 2005 | Attorney, ACC (2003 to present) |
22
Approval of Management Agreement |
At a meeting held on June 19, 2019, the Fund’s Board of Directors (the "Board") unanimously approved the renewal of the management agreement pursuant to which American Century Investment Management, Inc. (the “Advisor”) acts as the investment advisor for the Fund. Under Section 15(c) of the Investment Company Act, contracts for investment advisory services are required to be reviewed, evaluated, and approved by a majority of a fund’s directors/trustees, including a majority of the independent Directors, each year. The Board regards this annual evaluation and renewal as one of its most important responsibilities.
The independent Directors have memorialized a statement regarding the relationship between their ongoing obligations to oversee and evaluate the performance of the Advisor and their annual consideration of renewal of the management agreement. In that statement, the independent Directors noted that their assessment of the Advisor’s performance is an ongoing process that takes place over the entire year and is informed by all of the extensive information that the Board and its committees receive and consider over time. This information, together with the additional materials provided specifically in connection with the review, are central to the Board’s assessment of the Advisor’s performance and its determination whether to renew the Fund’s management agreement.
Prior to its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board requested and reviewed extensive data and analysis relating to the proposed renewal. This information and analysis was compiled by the Advisor and certain independent providers of evaluation data concerning the Fund and the services provided to the Fund by the Advisor.
In connection with its consideration of the renewal of the management agreement, the Board’s review and evaluation of the services provided by the Advisor included, but was not limited to, the following:
• | the nature, extent, and quality of investment management, shareholder services, and other services provided to the Fund; |
• | the wide range of other programs and services the Advisor provides to the Fund and its shareholders on a routine and non-routine basis; |
• | the investment performance of the Fund, including data comparing the Fund’s performance to appropriate benchmarks and/or a peer group of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives and strategies; |
• | the cost of owning the Fund compared to the cost of owning similar funds; |
• | the compliance policies, procedures, and regulatory experience of the Advisor and the Fund’s service providers; |
• | financial data showing the cost of services provided to the Fund, the profitability of the Fund to the Advisor, and the overall profitability of the Advisor; |
• | strategic plans of the Advisor; |
• | any economies of scale associated with the Advisor’s management of the Fund and other accounts; |
• | services provided and charges to the Advisor’s other investment management clients; |
• | acquired fund fees and expenses; |
• | payments and practices in connection with financial intermediaries holding shares of the Fund and the services provided by intermediaries in connection therewith; and |
• | any collateral benefits derived by the Advisor from the management of the Fund. |
In keeping with its practice, the Board held two in-person meetings to review and discuss the information provided in response to their request and held active discussions with the Advisor regarding the renewal of the management agreement. The independent Directors had the benefit of the advice of their independent counsel throughout the process.
23
Factors Considered
The Directors considered all of the information provided by the Advisor, the independent data providers, and the independent Directors’ independent counsel in connection with the approval. They determined that the information was sufficient for them to evaluate the management agreement for the Fund. In connection with their review, the Directors did not identify any single factor as being all-important or controlling and each Director may have attributed different levels of importance to different factors. In deciding to renew the management agreement, the Board based its decision on a number of factors, including the following:
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services — Generally. Under the management agreement, the Advisor is responsible for providing or arranging for all services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor provides or arranges at its own expense a wide variety of services including:
• | constructing and designing the Fund |
• | portfolio research and security selection |
• | initial capitalization/funding |
• | securities trading |
• | Fund administration |
• | custody of Fund assets |
• | daily valuation of the Fund’s portfolio |
• | shareholder servicing and transfer agency, including shareholder confirmations, recordkeeping, and communications |
• | legal services (except the independent Directors’ counsel) |
• | regulatory and portfolio compliance |
• | financial reporting |
• | marketing and distribution (except amounts paid by the Fund under Rule 12b-1 plans) |
The Board noted that many of these services have expanded over time in terms of both quantity and complexity in response to shareholder demands, competition in the industry, changing distribution channels, and the changing regulatory environment.
Investment Management Services. The nature of the investment management services provided to the Fund is quite complex and allows Fund shareholders access to professional money management, instant diversification of their investments within an asset class, the opportunity to easily diversify among asset classes by investing in or exchanging among various American Century Investments funds, and liquidity. In evaluating investment performance, the Board expects the Advisor to manage the Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and approved strategies. Further, the Directors recognize that the Advisor has an obligation to seek the best execution of fund trades. In providing these services, the Advisor utilizes teams of investment professionals (portfolio managers, analysts, research assistants, and securities traders) who require extensive information technology, research, training, compliance, and other systems to conduct their business. The Board, directly and through its Portfolio Committee, regularly reviews investment performance information for the Fund, together with comparative information for appropriate benchmarks and/or peer groups of similarly-managed funds, over different time horizons. The Directors also review investment performance information during the management agreement renewal process. If performance concerns are identified, the Fund receives special reviews until performance improves, during which the Board discusses with the Advisor the reasons for such results (e.g., market conditions, security selection) and any efforts being undertaken to improve performance. The Fund’s performance was above its benchmark for the one-year period and below its benchmark for the three-, five-, and ten-year periods reviewed by the Board. The Board discussed the Fund’s performance with the Advisor and was satisfied with the efforts being undertaken by the Advisor. The Board found the investment management services provided by the Advisor to the Fund to be satisfactory and consistent with the management agreement.
24
Shareholder and Other Services. Under the management agreement, the Advisor provides the Fund with a comprehensive package of transfer agency, shareholder, and other services. The Board, directly and through various committees of the Board, regularly reviews reports and evaluations of such services at its regular meetings. These reports include, but are not limited to, information regarding the operational efficiency and accuracy of the shareholder and transfer agency services provided, staffing levels, shareholder satisfaction, technology support (including cyber security), new products and services offered to Fund shareholders, securities trading activities, portfolio valuation services, auditing services, and legal and operational compliance activities. The Board found the services provided by the Advisor to the Fund under the management agreement to be competitive and of high quality.
Costs of Services and Profitability. The Advisor provides detailed information concerning its cost of providing various services to the Fund, its profitability in managing the Fund, its overall profitability, and its financial condition. The Directors have reviewed with the Advisor the methodology used to prepare this financial information. This information is considered in evaluating the Advisor’s financial condition, its ability to continue to provide services under the management agreement, and the reasonableness of the current management fee. The Board concluded that the Advisor’s profits were reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
Ethics. The Board generally considers the Advisor’s commitment to providing quality services to shareholders and to conducting its business ethically. They noted that the Advisor’s practices generally meet or exceed industry best practices.
Economies of Scale. The Board also reviewed information provided by the Advisor regarding the possible existence of economies of scale in connection with the management of the Fund. The Board concluded that economies of scale are difficult to measure and predict with precision, especially on a fund-by-fund basis. The Board concluded that the Advisor is appropriately sharing economies of scale through its competitive fee structure, offering competitive fees from fund inception, and through reinvestment in its business to provide shareholders enhanced and expanded services.
Comparison to Other Funds’ Fees. The management agreement provides that the Fund pays the Advisor a single, all-inclusive (or unified) management fee for providing all services necessary for the management and operation of the Fund, other than brokerage expenses, expenses attributable to short sales, taxes, interest, extraordinary expenses, fees and expenses of the Fund’s independent Directors (including their independent legal counsel), and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of shareholder services and distribution services under a plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under the unified fee structure, the Advisor is responsible for providing all investment advisory, custody, audit, administrative, compliance, recordkeeping, marketing, and shareholder services, or arranging and supervising third parties to provide such services. By contrast, most other funds are charged a variety of fees, including an investment advisory fee, a transfer agency fee, an administrative fee, distribution charges, and other expenses. Other than their investment advisory fees and any applicable Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, all other components of the total fees charged by these other funds may be increased without shareholder approval. The Board believes the unified fee structure is a benefit to Fund shareholders because it clearly discloses to shareholders the cost of owning Fund shares, and, since the unified fee cannot be increased without a vote of Fund shareholders, it shifts to the Advisor the risk of increased costs of operating the Fund and provides a direct incentive to minimize administrative inefficiencies. Part of the Board’s analysis of fee levels involves reviewing certain evaluative data compiled by an independent provider and comparing the Fund’s unified fee to the total expense ratio of peer funds. The unified fee charged to shareholders of the Fund was below the median of the total expense ratios of the Fund’s peer universe. The Board concluded that the management fee paid by the Fund to the Advisor under the management agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided to the Fund.
25
Comparison to Fees and Services Provided to Other Clients of the Advisor. The Board also requested and received information from the Advisor concerning the nature of the services, fees, costs, and profitability of its advisory services to advisory clients other than the Fund. They observed that these varying types of client accounts require different services and involve different regulatory and entrepreneurial risks than the management of the Fund. The Board analyzed this information and concluded that the fees charged and services provided to the Fund were reasonable by comparison.
Payments to Intermediaries. The Directors also requested and received a description of payments made to intermediaries by the Fund and the Advisor and services provided by intermediaries. These payments include various payments made by the Fund or the Advisor to different types of intermediaries and recordkeepers for distribution and service activities provided for the Fund. The Directors reviewed such information and received representations from the Advisor that all such payments by the Fund were made pursuant to the Fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plan and that all such payments by the Advisor were made from the Advisor’s resources and reasonable profits. The Board found such payments to be reasonable in scope and purpose.
Collateral or “Fall-Out” Benefits Derived by the Advisor. The Board considered the existence of collateral benefits the Advisor may receive as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Board noted that the Advisor’s primary business is managing mutual funds and it generally does not use fund or shareholder information to generate profits in other lines of business, and therefore does not derive any significant collateral benefits from them. The Board noted that the Advisor may receive proprietary research from broker-dealers that execute fund portfolio transactions. The Board also determined that the Advisor is able to provide investment management services to certain clients other than the Fund, at least in part, due to its existing infrastructure built to serve the fund complex. The Board noted that the assets of those other accounts are, where applicable, included with the assets of the Fund to determine breakpoints in the management fee schedule.
Existing Relationship. The Board also considered whether there was any reason for not continuing the existing arrangement with the Advisor. In this regard, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties, and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision not to continue such relationship. In particular, the Board recognized that most shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Advisor’s industry standing and reputation and in the expectation that the Advisor will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund.
Conclusion of the Directors. As a result of this process, the Board, including all of the independent Directors and assisted by the advice of independent legal counsel, taking into account all of the factors discussed above and the information provided by the Advisor and others in connection with its review and throughout the year, concluded that the management agreement between the Fund and the Advisor is fair and reasonable in light of the services provided and should be renewed.
26
Additional Information |
Retirement Account Information
As required by law, distributions you receive from certain retirement accounts are subject to federal income tax withholding, unless you elect not to have withholding apply*. Tax will be withheld on the total amount withdrawn even though you may be receiving amounts that are not subject to withholding, such as nondeductible contributions. In such case, excess amounts of withholding could occur. You may adjust your withholding election so that a greater or lesser amount will be withheld.
If you don’t want us to withhold on this amount, you must notify us to not withhold the federal income tax. You may notify us in writing or in certain situations by telephone or through other electronic means. For systematic withdrawals, your withholding election will remain in effect until revoked or changed by filing a new election. You have the right to revoke your election at any time and change your withholding percentage for future distributions.
Remember, even if you elect not to have income tax withheld, you are liable for paying income tax on the taxable portion of your withdrawal. If you elect not to have income tax withheld or you don’t have enough income tax withheld, you may be responsible for payment of estimated tax. You may incur penalties under the estimated tax rules if your withholding and estimated tax payments are not sufficient. You can reduce or defer the income tax on a distribution by directly or indirectly rolling such distribution over to another IRA or eligible plan. You should consult your tax advisor for additional information.
State tax will be withheld if, at the time of your distribution, your address is within one of the mandatory withholding states and you have federal income tax withheld (or as otherwise required by state law). State taxes will be withheld from your distribution in accordance with the respective state rules.
*Some 403(b), 457 and qualified retirement plan distributions may be subject to 20% mandatory withholding, as they are subject to special tax and withholding rules. Your plan administrator or plan sponsor is required to provide you with a special tax notice explaining those rules at the time you request a distribution. If applicable, federal and/or state taxes may be withheld from your distribution amount.
Proxy Voting Policies
Descriptions of the principles and policies that the fund's investment advisor uses in exercising the voting rights associated with the securities purchased and/or held by the fund are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021 or visiting the "About Us" page of American Century Investments’ website at americancentury.com. A description of the policies is also available on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at sec.gov. Information regarding how the investment advisor voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available on the "About Us" page at americancentury.com. It is also available at sec.gov.
Quarterly Portfolio Disclosure
The fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The fund’s Forms N-Q and Form N-PORT reports are available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. The fund also makes its complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the most recent quarter of its fiscal year available on its website at americancentury.com and, upon request, by calling 1-800-345-2021.
27
Other Tax Information
The following information is provided pursuant to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code.
The fund hereby designates up to the maximum amount allowable as qualified dividend income for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
For corporate taxpayers, the fund hereby designates $14,317,731, or up to the maximum amount allowable, of ordinary income distributions paid during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 as qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction.
The fund hereby designates $1,289,051 as qualified short-term capital gain distributions for purposes of Internal Revenue Code Section 871 for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
The fund hereby designates $8,605,284, or up to the maximum amount allowable, as long-term capital gain distributions (20% rate gain distributions) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019.
28
Notes |
29
Notes |
30
Notes |
31
Notes |
32
Contact Us | americancentury.com | |
Automated Information Line | 1-800-345-8765 | |
Investor Services Representative | 1-800-345-2021 or 816-531-5575 | |
Investors Using Advisors | 1-800-378-9878 | |
Business, Not-For-Profit, Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans | 1-800-345-3533 | |
Banks and Trust Companies, Broker-Dealers, Financial Professionals, Insurance Companies | 1-800-345-6488 | |
Telecommunications Relay Service for the Deaf | 711 | |
American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | ||
Investment Advisor: American Century Investment Management, Inc. Kansas City, Missouri | ||
This report and the statements it contains are submitted for the general information of our shareholders. The report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus. | ||
©2019 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. CL-ANN-92986 1908 |
ITEM 2. CODE OF ETHICS.
(a) | The registrant has adopted a Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers that applies to the registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, and persons performing similar functions. |
(b) | No response required. |
(c) | None. |
(d) | None. |
(e) | Not applicable. |
(f) | The registrant’s Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers was filed as Exhibit 12 (a)(1) to American Century Asset Allocation Portfolios, Inc.’s Annual Certified Shareholder Report on Form N-CSR, File No. 811-21591, on September 29, 2005, and is incorporated herein by reference. |
ITEM 3. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT.
(a)(1) | The registrant's board has determined that the registrant has at least one audit committee financial expert serving on its audit committee. |
(a)(2) | Tanya S. Beder, Anne Casscells, Peter F. Pervere and Ronald J. Gilson are the registrant's designated audit committee financial experts. They are "independent" as defined in Item 3 of Form N-CSR. |
(a)(3) | Not applicable. |
(b) | No response required. |
(c) | No response required. |
(d) | No response required. |
ITEM 4. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.
(a) | Audit Fees. |
The aggregate fees billed for each of the last two fiscal years for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for the audit of the registrant’s annual financial statements or services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for those fiscal years were as follows:
FY 2018: $412,559
FY 2019: $409,775
(b) | Audit-Related Fees. |
The aggregate fees billed in each of the last two fiscal years for assurance and related services by the principal accountant that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit of the registrant’s financial statements and are not reported under paragraph (a) of this Item were as follows:
For services rendered to the registrant:
FY 2018:$0 FY 2019:$0 |
Fees required to be approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X (relating to certain engagements for non-audit services with the registrant’s investment adviser and its affiliates):
FY 2018:$0 FY 2019:$0 |
(c) | Tax Fees. |
The aggregate fees billed in each of the last two fiscal years for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for tax compliance, tax advice, and tax planning were as follows:
For services rendered to the registrant:
FY 2018: $0
FY 2019: $0
Fees required to be approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X (relating to certain engagements for non-audit services with the registrant’s investment adviser and its affiliates):
FY 2018: $0
FY 2019: $0
(d)All Other Fees.
The aggregate fees billed in each of the last two fiscal years for products and services provided by the principal accountant, other than the services reported in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this Item were as follows:
For services rendered to the registrant:
FY 2018:$0 FY 2019:$0 |
Fees required to be approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X (relating to certain engagements for non-audit services with the registrant’s investment adviser and its affiliates):
FY 2018:$0 FY 2019:$0 |
(e)(1) | In accordance with paragraph (c)(7)(i)(A) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X, before the accountant is engaged by the registrant to render audit or non-audit services, the engagement is approved by the registrant’s audit committee. Pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X, the registrant’s audit committee also pre-approves its accountant’s engagements for non-audit services with the registrant’s investment adviser, its parent company, and any entity controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant, if the engagement relates directly to the operations and financial reporting of the registrant. |
(e)(2) | All services described in each of paragraphs (b) through (d) of this Item were pre-approved before the engagement by the registrant’s audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(A) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X. Consequently, none of such services were required to be approved by the audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C). |
(f) | The percentage of hours expended on the principal accountant’s engagement to audit the registrant’s financial statements for the most recent fiscal year that were attributed to work performed by persons other than the principal accountant’s full-time, permanent employees was less than 50%. |
(g) | The aggregate non-audit fees billed by the registrant’s accountant for services rendered to the registrant, and rendered to the registrant’s investment adviser (not including any sub-adviser whose role is primarily portfolio management and is subcontracted with or overseen by another investment adviser), and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant for each of the last two fiscal years of the registrant were as follows: |
FY 2018: $182,303
FY 2019: $181,197
(h) | The registrant’s investment adviser and accountant have notified the registrant’s audit committee of all non-audit services that were rendered by the registrant’s accountant to the registrant’s investment adviser, its parent company, and any entity controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser that provides services to the registrant, which services were not required to be pre-approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X. The notification provided to the registrant’s audit committee included sufficient details regarding such services to allow the registrant’s audit committee to consider the continuing independence of its principal accountant. |
ITEM 5. AUDIT COMMITTEE OF LISTED REGISTRANTS.
Not applicable.
ITEM 6. INVESTMENTS.
(a) | The schedule of investments is included as part of the report to stockholders filed under Item 1 of this Form. |
(b) | Not applicable. |
ITEM 7. DISCLOSURE OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.
Not applicable.
ITEM 8. PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OF CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.
Not applicable.
ITEM 9. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.
Not applicable.
ITEM 10. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.
During the reporting period, there were no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the registrant’s board.
ITEM 11. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
(a) | The registrant's principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) are effective based on their evaluation of these controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of this report. |
(b) | There were no changes in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) that occurred during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting. |
ITEM 12. DISCLOSURE OF SECURITIES LENDING ACTIVITIES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.
Not applicable.
ITEM 13. EXHIBITS.
(a)(1) | Registrant’s Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers, which is the subject of the disclosure required by Item 2 of Form N-CSR, was filed as Exhibit 12(a)(1) to American Century Asset Allocation Portfolios, Inc.’s Certified Shareholder Report on Form N-CSR, File No. 811-21591, on September 29, 2005. |
(a)(2) | Separate certifications by the registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and Rule 30a-2(a) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, are filed and attached hereto as EX-99.CERT. |
(a)(3) | Not applicable. |
(a)(4) | Not applicable. |
(b) | A certification by the registrant’s chief executive officer and chief financial officer, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, is furnished and attached hereto as EX-99.906CERT. |
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Registrant: | American Century Quantitative Equity Funds, Inc. | |||
By: | /s/ Jonathan S. Thomas | |||
Name: | Jonathan S. Thomas | |||
Title: | President | |||
Date: | August 23, 2019 |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
By: | /s/ Jonathan S. Thomas | ||
Name: | Jonathan S. Thomas | ||
Title: | President | ||
(principal executive officer) | |||
Date: | August 23, 2019 |
By: | /s/ R. Wes Campbell | ||
Name: | R. Wes Campbell | ||
Title: | Treasurer and | ||
Chief Financial Officer | |||
(principal financial officer) | |||
Date: | August 23, 2019 |