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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 811-06151
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
60 State Street, Boston, MA 02109
(Address of principal executive offices) (ZIP code)
Dorothy E. Bourassa, Pioneer Investment Management, Inc.,
60 State Street, Boston, MA 02109
(Name and address of agent for service)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (617) 742-7825
Date of fiscal year end: August 31
Date of reporting period: September 1, 2007 through February 29, 2008
Form N-CSR is to be used by management investment companies to file reports with
the Commission not later than 10 days after the transmission to stockholders of
any report that is required to be transmitted to stockholders under Rule 30e-1
under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30e-1). The Commission may
use the information provided on Form N-CSR in its regulatory, disclosure review,
inspection, and policymaking roles.
A registrant is required to disclose the information specified by Form N-CSR,
and the Commission will make this information public. A registrant is not
required to respond to the collection of information contained in Form N-CSR
unless the Form displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget
("OMB") control number. Please direct comments concerning the accuracy of the
information collection burden estimate and any suggestions for reducing the
burden to Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 450 Fifth Street, NW,
Washington, DC 20549-0609. The OMB has reviewed this collection of information
under the clearance requirements of 44 U.S.C. ss. 3507.
ITEM 1. REPORTS TO SHAREOWNERS.
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PIONEER
-------
EUROPE
SELECT EQUITY
FUND
PERAX
Ticker Symbol
Semiannual
Report
2/29/08
[LOGO]PIONEER
Investments(R)
Table of Contents
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Letter to Shareowners 2
Portfolio Management Discussion 4
Portfolio Summary 8
Prices and Distributions 9
Performance Update 10
Comparing Ongoing Fund Expenses 14
Schedule of Investments 16
Financial Statements 20
Notes to Financial Statements 28
Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement 35
Trustees, Officers and Service Providers 39
President's
Dear Shareowner,
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Staying diversified and keeping your portfolio invested in the markets are two
general investment principles that have served investors well over time. They
are particularly useful guides to keep in mind today, at a time when markets
around the globe are being buffeted by problems in the financial and real
estate industries and by concerns about a slowing U.S. economy.
After an extended period of steady growth with sustained low unemployment and
low inflation, the U.S. economy ran into difficulty as 2007 drew to a close.
Problems in the financial system tied to poor practices in the mortgage
financing industry and the end of home price appreciation have forced investors
and bankers to mark down the value of assets on their balance sheets. A
late-summer credit crunch forced central banks in the U.S. and Europe to assume
the role of "lender of last resort" to keep credit markets functioning. As the
repercussions of the credit crunch and falling home prices were felt in the
real economy, unemployment rose and consumer confidence fell. Inflation
concerns moved to the back burner for the U.S. Federal Reserve, which lowered
interest rates, first gradually, then more rapidly, as concern grew that
falling home prices and disruptions in financial markets posed a significant
threat to economic growth.
Markets reacted poorly to these developments, with fixed-income credit spreads
(the difference in rates between corporate and U.S. government bonds) widening
dramatically and stock markets declining. For the six months ending February
29, 2008, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 7%, the Standard & Poor's 500
Index declined 9% and the NASDAQ Composite Index fell 13%. The MSCI EAFE
Developed Market Index of international stock markets fell 5% during that
period. Only the MSCI Emerging Markets Index posted a positive return over the
six-month period, rising 18%. The U.S. investment-grade bond market, as
measured by the Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index, rose 6% over the six
months ending February 29, 2008. The U.S. high-yield bond market, as measured
by the Merrill Lynch High Yield Bond Master II Index, fell 1% over the same
six-month period as its higher coupon yields could not offset a fall in bond
prices triggered by widening credit spreads.
2
Letter
Looking forward, a growing number of economists are concerned about a
recession. As always, though, emotions can get ahead of reality. Higher
mortgage defaults, a spreading of weakness to other consumer sectors or to
employment, and the possibility of a worsening of the liquidity/credit crunch
represent risks to the economy. Conversely, economic growth in the rest of the
world remains relatively positive, and a weak U.S. dollar has significantly
benefited U.S. companies competing in the global marketplace. While falling
risk tolerances may continue to depress asset prices in the short term, equity
and corporate bond valuations look reasonable unless the U.S. economy falls
into a severe recession.
Sudden swings in the markets are always to be expected. The history of the
stock market demonstrates that sharp market downturns are frequently followed
by strong recoveries, but they are also difficult to time. Just as staying
diversified and invested are important investment principles, it is also
important to pay attention to asset allocation. As always, we encourage you to
work closely with your financial advisor to find the mix of stocks, bonds and
money market assets that is best aligned to your particular risk tolerance and
investment objective.
Respectfully,
/s/Daniel K. Kingsbury
Daniel K. Kingsbury
President and CEO
Pioneer Investment Management USA, Inc.
Any information in this shareholder report regarding market or economic trends
or the factors influencing the Fund's historical or future performance are
statements of the opinion of Fund management as of the date of this report.
These statements should not be relied upon for any other purposes. Past
performance is no guarantee of future results, and there is no guarantee that
market forecasts discussed will be realized.
3
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
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PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION 2/29/08
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European equity markets slumped during the six months ending February 29, 2008,
as investors worried about potential deceleration of economic growth aggravated
by growing problems within the financials sector. In the following discussion,
Andrew Arbuthnott discusses the factors that affected the performance of
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund over the six months. Mr. Arbuthnott is a
member of the team at Pioneer Investment Management in Dublin, Ireland, that is
responsible for the Fund's day-to-day management.
Q: How did Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund perform during the six months
ending February 29, 2008?
A: Europe Select Equity Fund's Class A Shares had a total return of -14.00%, at
net asset value, for the period. During the same six months, the MSCI
Europe Index posted -4.76%, while the average return of the 107 mutual
funds in Lipper's European Region Funds category was -6.78%.
Call 1-800-225-6292 or visit www.pioneerinvestments.com for the most
recent month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or
higher than the performance data quoted.
The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no
guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will
fluctuate, and shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their
original cost.
Q: What were the principal factors affecting the performance of European
equities for the six months?
A: The major European stock averages fell sharply during the six months as a
result of a confluence of events that raised concerns about a potential
downturn in the region's economy. The MSCI Europe Index, a benchmark for
the region, fell by about 15% in local currency terms during the period.
However, an 11% gain in the value of the euro relative to the U.S. dollar
softened the impact of the declining stock prices on returns realized by
U.S. investors. The value of the euro was just one of the factors that
loomed as a drag on growth in Europe, as the stronger euro made European
exports relatively more expensive in international markets. Growing
trouble in the financials sector was the major factor that led to economic
weakening. Concerns first surfaced
4
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
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over the subprime mortgage market in the United States, but the problems
spread to Europe where many major financial institutions held assets tied
to the U.S. mortgage market. The issue then expanded to encompass wider
concerns about credit risk in general, resulting in a slowing of lending
activity of all types.
With the price of oil climbing by 38% in Europe during the six months,
higher energy costs also appeared to brake the expansion of economies in
Europe. Europe's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 2.6% for 2007, but
appeared to decelerate noticeably at the end of the 2007, especially in
the United Kingdom, Ireland and Spain. Consensus expectations were that
GDP growth in 2008 might fall below 2%.
Against this backdrop, stocks of the most economically sensitive companies
tended to perform poorly. Shares of retailers, for example, fell by 23% in
U.S.-dollar terms during the period, while diversified financials, banks
and information technology stocks also produced weak returns during the
period. Materials stocks were the strongest performing market sector in
Europe, with stock returns averaging 11% in U.S. terms over the six
months. Shares of materials companies appreciated as commodity prices rose
and merger-and-acquisition activity increased. Other sectors turning in
positive performance during the period included: utilities; food, beverage
and tobacco; telecommunications services and energy.
Q: What types of investments tended to detract from Fund performance relative
to the MSCI Europe Index?
A: The Fund's stock holdings tended to be in some of the weaker performing
areas. Selections in consumer durables stocks produced particularly
disappointing results during the period, largely due to the Fund's
positions in Persimmon and Taylor Wimpey, two major homebuilders in the
United Kingdom that performed very poorly. Both companies produced
acceptable earnings in a housing market that had not gone through the
overbuilding and speculation that has characterized the U.S. market.
However, mortgage-related problems of financial institutions resulted in a
decline in money for home mortgages, leading investors to avoid
homebuilder stocks. One major mortgage issuer, Northern Rock, was in the
process of being nationalized by the British government because of the
mortgage squeeze.
5
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
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PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION 2/29/08 (continued)
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Selections in materials stocks also did not help, as the Fund did not own
any of the mining stocks that were involved in merger discussions for most
of the period. We did add a position in Rio Tinto during the period, but
we did not participate in most of the appreciation of the stock following
its acquisition proposal by BHP Billiton. In addition, the Fund's
investment in CRH, which supplies construction materials in the United
States and the United Kingdom, underperformed and held back Fund results.
Energy was another area of weakness during the period, as the Fund did not
have positions in several strong-performing stocks, including BG, a
British-based integrated natural gas company. The underweighting of
utilities stocks during the period also did not help.
Among individual holdings, Swedish telecommunications equipment company
Ericsson performed poorly during the period, as did the Royal Bank of
Scotland. Ericsson reduced its profit projections as it lowered its
forecast of telecommunications infrastructure spending. Royal Bank of
Scotland was hit both by general concerns about banking and about worries
that it had paid too much in acquiring the Dutch bank ABN Amro shortly
before serious concerns arose in the banking industry.
Q: What types of investments helped the Fund's performance during the period?
A: DNB was a notable standout during the period in the weak-performing banking
industry. This Norwegian bank's stock gained 8% over the period, helped by
the healthy economy in Norway, which has benefited from its exposure to
the energy sector. In the health care equipment and services area, the
German corporation Fresenius Medical Care, a leading global provider of
equipment and services for patients with kidney problems, continued to
show strong profit growth during the period. Another health care selection
that helped performance was Roche, the Switzerland-based pharmaceutical
company. In the media industry, Reed Elsevier, a global publishing firm
whose stock is traded on exchanges in both the United Kingdom and the
Netherlands, performed very well, as did British American Tobacco, whose
stock rose by 14% in the six months. In the capital goods industry, German
engineering giant Siemens posted strong results for the period.
6
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
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Q: What is your investment outlook?
A: While the short-term outlook for European stocks appears challenging, we
continue to see longer-term opportunities. On the negative side, the
problems in the financials sector are continuing, while the strong euro
and high energy prices have combined to hold back growth. At the same
time, the European Central Bank has not started to lower short-term
interest rates to stimulate growth, and earnings forecasts for 2008 tend
to be below 2007 levels.
However, growth in the European economy still is projected to be near 2%
this year, which is consistent with long-term trends. The sustained
expansion in emerging markets should help drive continued growth in
Europe, where stock valuations are very reasonable and dividend yields
have been averaging 4%. Moreover, European corporations in general have
strong balance sheets, with not much debt. Their strong financial footings
should help them sustain their dividends and support stock repurchase
programs and other initiatives to buttress equity prices.
Investing in foreign and/or emerging markets securities involves certain risks,
including risks relating to interest rates, currency exchange rates, economic,
and political conditions. The Fund may invest a substantial amount of its
assets in issuers located in a limited number of countries and, therefore, is
susceptible to adverse economic, political or regulatory developments affecting
those countries. The Fund invests in a limited number of securities and, as a
result, the Fund's performance may be more volatile than the performance of
funds holding more securities. At times, the Fund's investments may represent
industries or industry sectors that are interrelated or have common risks,
making it more susceptible to any economic, political, or regulatory
developments or other risks affecting those industries and sectors.
Any information in this shareholder report regarding market or economic trends
or the factors influencing the Fund's historical or future performance are
statements of the opinion of Fund management as of the date of this report.
These statements should not be relied upon for any other purposes. Past
performance is no guarantee of future results, and there is no guarantee that
market forecasts discussed will be realized.
7
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
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PORTFOLIO SUMMARY 2/29/08
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Sector Distribution
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(As a percentage of equity holdings)
[THE FOLLOWING DATA IS REPRESENTED AS A PIE CHART IN THE PRINTED MATERIAL]
Financials 22.7%
Consumer Discretionary 21.5%
Industrials 9.8%
Materials 8.9%
Telecommunication Services 8.8%
Health Care 8.5%
Energy 6.7%
Utilities 5.3%
Consumer Staples 5.4%
Information Technology 2.4%
Geographical Distribution
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(As a percentage of equity holdings)
[THE FOLLOWING DATA IS REPRESENTED AS A BAR CHART IN THE PRINTED MATERIAL]
United Kingdom 36.2%
France 11.6%
Germany 10.3%
Switzerland 10.0%
Netherlands 8.4%
Norway 4.0%
Greece 3.8%
Ireland 3.2%
Spain 3.0%
Panama 2.7%
Belgium 2.5%
Denmark 2.5%
United States 1.8%
10 Largest Holdings
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(As a percentage of equity holdings)*
1. National Grid Plc 5.27%
2. Royal Bank of Scotland Group Plc 4.36
3. BP Amoco Plc 4.23
4. Siemens 4.00
5. Roche Holdings AG 3.99
6. Vodafone Group Plc 3.91
7. CS Group 3.86
8. Daimlerchrysler AG 3.61
9. BNP Paribas SA 3.39
10. TNT NV 3.27
* This list excludes temporary cash and derivative instruments. The portfolio
is actively managed, and current holdings may be different. The holdings
listed should not be considered recommendations to buy or sell any security
listed.
8
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
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PRICES AND DISTRIBUTIONS
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Net Asset Value Per Share
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Class 2/29/08 8/31/07
----- ------- -------
A $30.65 $43.23
B $27.39 $39.18
C $27.09 $38.95
Y $31.79 $44.64
Distributions Per Share
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9/1/07 - 2/29/08
----------------
Net
Investment Short-Term Long-Term
Class Income Capital Gains Capital Gains
----- ------ ------------- -------------
A $0.4977 $0.1214 $6.9198
B $0.0936 $0.1214 $6.9198
C $0.2155 $0.1214 $6.9198
Y $0.6936 $0.1214 $6.9198
9
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
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PERFORMANCE UPDATE 2/29/08 CLASS A SHARES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Returns
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The mountain chart on the right shows the change in value of a $10,000
investment made in Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund at public offering price,
compared to that of the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe
Index.
[THE FOLLOWING DATA IS REPRESENTED AS A MOUNTAIN CHART IN THE PRINTED MATERIAL]
Pioneer
Europe Select MSCI Europe
Equity Fund Index
12/00 10000 9425
9127 8464
2/02 7616 7737
6067 6821
2/04 9539 10491
11460 13000
2/06 13033 14660
16461 17771
2/08 17101 15929
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Average Annual Total Returns
(As of February 29, 2008)
Net Asset Public Offering
Period Value (NAV) Price (POP)
Life-of-Class
(12/29/00) 7.60% 6.71%
5 Years 18.49 17.08
1 Year -10.37 -15.52
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Expense Ratio
(Per prospectus dated December 31, 2007)
Gross Net
1.48% 1.48%
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Call 1-800-225-6292 or visit www.pioneerinvestments.com for the most recent
month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than
the performance data quoted.
The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee
of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and
shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.
NAV results represent the percent change in net asset value per share. Returns
would have been lower had sales charges been reflected. POP returns reflect
deduction of maximum 5.75% sales charge. All results are historical and assume
the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains. Other share classes are
available for which performance and expenses will differ.
Pioneer Europe Fund acquired the assets and liabilities of Pioneer Europe
Select Fund (the predecessor fund) on June 24, 2005 and changed its name to
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund. Returns prior to June 24, 2005 reflect the
performance of the predecessor fund, which has not been restated to reflect any
differences in expenses.
Performance results reflect any applicable expense waivers in effect during the
periods shown. Without such waivers Fund performance would be lower. Waivers
may not be in effect for all funds. Certain fee waivers are contractual through
a specified period. Otherwise, fee waivers can be rescinded at any time. See
the prospectus and financial statements for more information.
The net expense ratio reflects contractual expense limitations (to the extent
applicable) currently in effect through 1/1/11 for Class A shares. There can be
no assurance that Pioneer will extend the expense limitations beyond such time.
Please see the prospectus and financial statements for more information.
The performance table and graph do not reflect the deduction of fees and taxes
that a shareowner would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund
shares.
The Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe Index measures the
performance of stocks in European developed markets. Index returns are
calculated monthly, assume reinvestment of dividends and, unlike Fund returns,
do not reflect any fees, expenses or sales charges. You cannot invest directly
in an index.
10
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
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PERFORMANCE UPDATE 2/29/08 CLASS B SHARES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Returns
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The mountain chart on the right shows the change in value of a $10,000
investment made in Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund, compared to that of the
Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe Index.
[THE FOLLOWING DATA IS REPRESENTED AS A MOUNTAIN CHART IN THE PRINTED MATERIAL]
Pioneer
Europe Select MSCI Europe
Equity Fund Index
12/00 10000 10000
9127 8980
2/02 7616 8160
6067 7130
2/04 9539 10843
11460 13307
2/06 13033 14864
16461 17823
2/08 17101 15829
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Average Annual Total Returns
(As of February 29, 2008)
If If
Period Held Redeemed
Life-of-Class
(12/29/00) 6.62% 6.62%
5 Years 17.29 17.29
1 Year -11.19 -14.09
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Expense Ratio
(Per prospectus dated December 31, 2007)
Gross Net
2.50% 2.40%
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Call 1-800-225-6292 or visit www.pioneerinvestments.com for the most recent
month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than
the performance data quoted.
The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee
of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and
shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.
"If Held" results represent the percent change in net asset value per share.
Returns would have been lower had sales charges been reflected. "If Redeemed"
returns reflect the deduction of applicable contingent deferred sales charge
(CSDC). Effective December 1, 2004, the period during which a CDSC is applied to
withdrawals was shortened to 5 years. The maximum CDSC for class B shares
continues to be 4%. For more complete information, please see the prospectus for
details. Note: Shares purchased prior to December 1, 2004 remain subject to the
CDSC in effect at the time you purchased those shares. For performance
information for shares purchased prior to December 1, 2004, please visit
www.pioneerinvestments.com/bshares. All results are historical and assume the
reinvestment of dividends and capital gains. Other share classes are available
for which performance and expenses will differ.
Pioneer Europe Fund acquired the assets and liabilities of Pioneer Europe
Select Fund (the predecessor fund) on June 24, 2005 and changed its name to
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund. Returns prior to June 24, 2005 reflect the
performance of the predecessor fund, which has not been restated to reflect any
differences in expenses.
Performance results reflect any applicable expense waivers in effect during the
periods shown. Without such waivers Fund performance would be lower. Waivers
may not be in effect for all funds. Certain fee waivers are contractual through
a specified period. Otherwise, fee waivers can be rescinded at any time. See
the prospectus and financial statements for more information.
The net expense ratio reflects contractual expense limitations (to the extent
applicable) currently in effect through 1/1/09 for Class B shares. There can be
no assurance that Pioneer will extend the expense limitations beyond such time.
Please see the prospectus and financial statements for more information.
The performance table and graph do not reflect the deduction of fees and taxes
that a shareowner would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund
shares.
The Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe Index measures the
performance of stocks in European developed markets. Index returns are
calculated monthly, assume reinvestment of dividends and, unlike Fund returns,
do not reflect any fees, expenses or sales charges. You cannot invest directly
in an index.
11
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
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PERFORMANCE UPDATE 2/29/08 CLASS C SHARES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Returns
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The mountain chart on the right shows the change in value of a $10,000
investment made in Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund, compared to that of the
Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe Index.
[THE FOLLOWING DATA IS REPRESENTED AS A MOUNTAIN CHART IN THE PRINTED MATERIAL]
Pioneer
Europe Select MSCI Europe
Equity Fund Index
12/00 10000 10000
9127 8990
2/02 7616 8170
6067 7180
2/04 9539 10963
11460 13500
2/06 13033 15093
16461 18131
2/08 17101 16118
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns
(As of February 29, 2008)
If If
Period Held Redeemed
Life-of-Class
(12/29/00) 6.89% 6.89%
5 Years 17.55 17.55
1 Year -11.11 -11.11
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Expense Ratio
(Per prospectus dated December 31, 2007)
Gross Net
2.29% 2.29%
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Call 1-800-225-6292 or visit www.pioneerinvestments.com for the most recent
month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than
the performance data quoted.
The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee
of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and
shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.
Class C shares held for less than one year are also subject to a 1% contingent
deferred sales charge (CDSC). The performance of Class C shares does not
reflect the 1% front-end sales charge in effect prior to February 1, 2004. If
you paid a 1% sales charge, your returns would be lower than those shown above.
"If Held" results represent the percent change in net asset value per share.
Returns would have been lower had sales charges been reflected. All results are
historical and assume the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains. Other
share classes are available for which performance and expenses will differ.
Pioneer Europe Fund acquired the assets and liabilities of Pioneer Europe
Select Fund (the predecessor fund) on June 24, 2005 and changed its name to
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund. Returns prior to June 24, 2005 reflect the
performance of the predecessor fund, which has not been restated to reflect any
differences in expenses.
Performance results reflect any applicable expense waivers in effect during the
periods shown. Without such waivers Fund performance would be lower. Waivers
may not be in effect for all funds. Certain fee waivers are contractual through
a specified period. Otherwise, fee waivers can be rescinded at any time. See
the prospectus and financial statements for more information.
The net expense ratio reflects contractual expense limitations (to the extent
applicable) currently in effect through 1/1/09 for Class C shares. There can be
no assurance that Pioneer will extend the expense limitations beyond such time.
Please see the prospectus and financial statements for more information.
The performance table and graph do not reflect the deduction of fees and taxes
that a shareowner would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund
shares.
The Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe Index measures the
performance of stocks in European developed markets. Index returns are
calculated monthly, assume reinvestment of dividends and, unlike Fund returns,
do not reflect any fees, expenses or sales charges. You cannot invest directly
in an index.
12
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PERFORMANCE UPDATE 2/29/08 CLASS Y SHARES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Returns
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The mountain chart on the right shows the change in value of a $10,000
investment made in Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund, compared to that of the
Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe Index.
[THE FOLLOWING DATA IS REPRESENTED AS A MOUNTAIN CHART IN THE PRINTED MATERIAL]
Pioneer
Europe Select MSCI Europe
Equity Fund Index
12/00 10000 10000
9127 8980
2/02 7616 8209
6067 7237
2/04 9539 11131
11460 13793
2/06 13033 15611
16461 19034
2/08 17101 17143
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns
(As of February 29, 2008)
If If
Period Held Redeemed
Life-of-Class
(12/29/00) 7.81% 7.81%
5 Years 18.82 18.82
1 Year -9.93 -9.93
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Ratio
(Per prospectus dated December 31, 2007)
Gross Net
0.98% 0.98%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Call 1-800-225-6292 or visit www.pioneerinvestments.com for the most recent
month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than
the performance data quoted.
The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee
of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate, and
shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.
Class Y shares are not subject to sales charges and are available for limited
groups of eligible investors, including institutional investors. All results
are historical and assume the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
Other share classes are available for which performance and expenses will
differ.
Pioneer Europe Fund acquired the assets and liabilities of Pioneer Europe
Select Fund (the predecessor fund) on June 24, 2005 and changed its name to
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund. The predecessor fund did not offer Class Y
shares. Returns prior to June 24, 2005 are based on the net asset value
performance of the predecessor fund's Class A shares, which has not been
restated to reflect any differences in expenses, including Rule 12b-1 fees
applicable to Class A shares.
Performance results reflect any applicable expense waivers in effect during the
periods shown. Without such waivers Fund performance would be lower. Waivers
may not be in effect for all funds. Certain fee waivers are contractual through
a specified period. Otherwise, fee waivers can be rescinded at any time. See
the prospectus and financial statements for more information.
The performance table and graph do not reflect the deduction of fees and taxes
that a shareowner would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund
shares.
The Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe Index measures the
performance of stocks in European developed markets. Index returns are
calculated monthly, assume reinvestment of dividends and, unlike Fund returns,
do not reflect any fees, expenses or sales charges. You cannot invest directly
in an index.
13
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
COMPARING ONGOING FUND EXPENSES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As a shareowner in the Fund, you incur two types of costs:
(1) ongoing costs, including management fees, distribution and/or service
(12b-1) fees, and other Fund expenses; and
(2) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments.
This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing expenses (in
dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing
costs of investing in other mutual funds. The example is based on an investment
of $1,000 at the beginning of the Fund's latest six-month period and held
throughout the six months.
Using the Tables
Actual Expenses
The first table below provides information about actual account values and
actual expenses. You may use the information in this table, together with the
amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period as
follows:
1. Divide your account value by $1,000
Example: an $8,600 account value [divided by] $1,000 = 8.6
2. Multiply the result in (1) above by the corresponding share class's number
in the third row under the heading entitled "Expenses Paid During Period"
to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
Expenses Paid on a $1,000 Investment in Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
Based on actual returns from September 1, 2007 through February 29, 2008
Share Class A B C Y
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Beginning Account Value $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00
On 9/1/07
Ending Account Value $ 860.00 $ 856.20 $ 856.30 $ 862.50
On 2/29/08
Expenses Paid During Period* $ 6.94 $ 11.35 $ 10.89 $ 4.63
* Expenses are equal to the Fund's annualized expense ratio of 1.50%, 2.46%,
2.36% and 1.00%, for Class A, Class B, Class C and Class Y shares,
respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period,
multiplied by 182/366 (to reflect the one-half year period).
14
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The table below provides information about hypothetical account values and
hypothetical expenses based on the Fund's actual expense ratio and an assumed
rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund's actual
return. 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 the
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 tables are meant to highlight your
ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transaction costs, such as sales
charges (loads) that are charged at the time of the transaction. Therefore, the
table below 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 transaction costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
Expenses Paid on a $1,000 Investment in Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
Based on a hypothetical 5% return per year before expenses, reflecting
the period from September 1, 2007 through February 29, 2008
Share Class A B C Y
- ------------------------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Beginning Account Value $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00
On 9/1/07
Ending Account Value $1,017.40 $1,012.63 $1,013.13 $1,019.89
On 2/29/08
Expenses Paid During Period* $ 7.52 $ 12.31 $ 11.81 $ 5.02
* Expenses are equal to the Fund's annualized expense ratio of 1.50%, 2.46%,
2.36% and 1.00%, for Class A, Class B, Class C and Class Y shares,
respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period,
multiplied by 182/366 (to reflect the one-half year period).
15
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS 2/29/08 (unaudited)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shares Value
COMMON STOCKS - 99.1%
Energy - 6.6%
Integrated Oil & Gas - 5.3%
766,401 BP Amoco Plc $ 8,297,703
60,418 Royal Dutch Shell Plc 2,176,486
------------
$ 10,474,189
------------
Oil & Gas Equipment & Services - 1.3%
31,681 Technip $ 2,577,648
------------
Total Energy $ 13,051,837
------------
Materials - 8.8%
Construction Materials - 3.2%
167,056 CRH Plc $ 6,217,452
------------
Diversified Metals & Mining - 4.4%
65,290 Anglo American Plc $ 4,141,276
41,238 Rio Tinto Plc 4,623,855
------------
$ 8,765,131
------------
Fertilizers & Agricultural Chemicals - 1.2%
43,345 Yara International ASA* $ 2,418,848
------------
Total Materials $ 17,401,431
------------
Capital Goods - 6.5%
Aerospace & Defense - 1.1%
35,347 Thomson CSF* $ 2,171,028
------------
Industrial Conglomerates - 4.0%
62,004 Siemens $ 7,844,637
------------
Trading Companies & Distributors - 1.4%
234,821 Wolsely $ 2,868,181
------------
Total Capital Goods $ 12,883,846
------------
Transportation - 3.2%
Air Freight & Couriers - 3.2%
162,770 TNT NV $ 6,414,114
------------
Total Transportation $ 6,414,114
------------
Automobiles & Components - 6.8%
Automobile Manufacturers - 3.6%
84,285 Daimlerchrysler AG* $ 7,092,363
------------
16 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial
statements.
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shares Value
Tires & Rubber - 3.2%
64,628 Compagnie Generale des Etablissements
Michelin* $ 6,370,615
------------
Total Automobiles & Components $ 13,462,978
------------
Consumer Durables & Apparel - 4.1%
Homebuilding - 4.1%
327,113 Persimmon Plc $ 4,739,371
1,020,888 Taylor Wimpey Plc 3,445,594
------------
$ 8,184,965
------------
Total Consumer Durables & Apparel $ 8,184,965
------------
Consumer Services - 4.5%
Casinos & Gaming - 1.9%
112,339 Opap SA $ 3,676,965
------------
Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines - 2.6%
133,190 Carnival Corp. $ 5,241,027
------------
Total Consumer Services $ 8,917,992
------------
Media - 5.9%
Broadcasting & Cable TV - 3.2%
310,314 British Sky Broadcasting Plc $ 3,482,107
107,043 Eutelsat Communications 2,953,213
------------
$ 6,435,320
------------
Publishing - 2.7%
284,537 Elsevier NV $ 5,281,300
------------
Total Media $ 11,716,620
------------
Food & Drug Retailing - 2.2%
Food Retail - 2.2%
547,626 Tesco Plc $ 4,321,961
------------
Total Food & Drug Retailing $ 4,321,961
------------
Food, Beverage & Tobacco - 3.2%
Tobacco - 3.2%
168,414 British American Tobacco Plc $ 6,309,028
------------
Total Food, Beverage & Tobacco $ 6,309,028
------------
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 17
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS 2/29/08 (unaudited) (continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shares Value
Health Care Equipment & Services - 2.6%
Health Care Services - 2.6%
99,368 Fresenius Medical Care AG $ 5,220,253
------------
Total Health Care Equipment & Services $ 5,220,253
------------
Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology - 5.8%
Pharmaceuticals - 5.8%
160,030 Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. $ 3,618,278
39,944 Roche Holdings AG 7,836,016
------------
$ 11,454,294
------------
Total Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology $ 11,454,294
------------
Banks - 16.5%
Diversified Banks - 16.5%
74,071 BNP Paribas SA $ 6,659,086
128,729 Danske Bank 4,933,415
214,413 Dexia* 5,041,401
366,393 Dnb Nor Asa 5,358,782
1,133,677 Royal Bank of Scotland Group Plc 8,550,168
20,103 Societe Generale 2,155,568
------------
$ 32,698,420
------------
Total Banks $ 32,698,420
------------
Diversified Financials - 6.0%
Diversified Capital Markets - 6.0%
154,562 CS Group $ 7,581,566
129,787 UBS AG 4,244,996
------------
$ 11,826,562
------------
Total Diversified Financials $ 11,826,562
------------
Semiconductors - 2.4%
Semiconductor Equipment - 2.4%
195,628 ASM Lithography Holding NV $ 4,728,320
------------
Total Semiconductors $ 4,728,320
------------
18 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial
statements.
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shares Value
Telecommunication Services - 8.8%
Integrated Telecommunication Services - 4.9%
133,328 Hellenic Telekom Organization* $ 3,695,607
205,561 Telefonica SA 5,955,079
------------
$ 9,650,686
------------
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 3.9%
2,391,452 Vodafone Group Plc $ 7,679,990
------------
Total Telecommunication Services $ 17,330,676
------------
Utilities - 5.2%
Multi-Utilities - 5.2%
712,950 National Grid Plc $ 10,341,282
------------
Total Utilities $ 10,341,282
------------
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $207,777,347) $196,264,579
------------
RIGHTS - 0.0%
Energy - 0.0%
Integrated Oil & Gas - 0.0%
60,418 Royal Dutch Shell Plc, Exp. 3/3/08* $ -
------------
TOTAL RIGHTS
(Cost $0) $ -
------------
TOTAL INVESTMENT IN SECURITIES - 99.1%
(Cost $207,777,347)(a) $196,264,579
------------
OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES - 0.9% $ 1,835,720
------------
TOTAL NET ASSETS - 100.0% $198,100,299
============
* Non-income producing security.
(a) At February 29, 2008, the net unrealized loss on investments based on
cost for federal income tax purposes of $207,990,419 was as follows:
Aggregate gross unrealized gain for all investments in which there is
an excess of value over tax cost $ 13,293,527
Aggregate gross unrealized loss for all investments in which there is
an excess of tax cost over value (25,019,367)
------------
Net unrealized loss $(11,725,840)
============
Purchases and sales of securities (excluding temporary cash investments) for
the six months ended February 29, 2008 aggregated $77,192,120 and $119,932,642,
respectively.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 19
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES 2/29/08 (unaudited)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASSETS:
Investment in securities, at value (cost $207,777,347) $196,264,579
Cash 292,499
Foreign currencies, at value (cost $31) 31
Receivables -
Investment securities sold 4,044,636
Fund shares sold 79,009
Forward foreign currency settlement contracts, gross 2,186,353
Dividends, interest and foreign taxes withheld 541,200
Due from Pioneer Investment Management, Inc. 19,203
Other 39,952
-------------
Total assets $203,467,462
-------------
LIABILITIES:
Payables -
Investment securities purchased $ 2,294,560
Fund shares repurchased 687,852
Forward foreign currency settlement contracts, gross 2,187,144
Due to affiliates 95,866
Accrued expenses 101,741
-------------
Total liabilities $ 5,367,163
-------------
NET ASSETS:
Paid-in capital $211,523,517
Distributions in excess of net investment income (734,632)
Accumulated net realized loss on investments and foreign
currency transactions (1,199,556)
Net unrealized loss on investments (11,512,768)
Net unrealized gain on forward foreign currency contracts
and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign
currencies 23,738
-------------
Total net assets $198,100,299
=============
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE:
(No par value, unlimited number of shares authorized)
Class A (based on $130,496,885/4,257,435 shares) $ 30.65
=============
Class B (based on $17,252,800/629,977 shares) $ 27.39
=============
Class C (based on $13,035,282/481,211 shares) $ 27.09
=============
Class Y (based on $37,315,332/1,173,992 shares) $ 31.79
=============
MAXIMUM OFFERING PRICE:
Class A ($30.65 [divided by] 94.25%) $ 32.52
=============
20 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial
statements.
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (unaudited)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the Six Months Ended 2/29/08
INVESTMENT INCOME:
Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $148,096) $ 1,722,479
Interest 67,382
-------------
Total investment income $ 1,789,861
-------------
EXPENSES:
Management fees $ 1,065,297
Transfer agent fees and expenses
Class A 256,222
Class B 75,989
Class C 30,004
Class Y 286
Distribution fees
Class A 197,682
Class B 112,763
Class C 80,741
Administrative fees 28,199
Custodian fees 49,943
Registration fees 41,676
Professional fees 27,268
Printing expense 21,026
Fees and expenses of nonaffiliated trustees 4,502
Miscellaneous 13,621
-------------
Total expenses $ 2,005,219
Less management fees waived and
expenses reimbursed by Pioneer Investment
Management, Inc. (56,438)
Less fees paid indirectly (10,108)
-------------
Net expenses $ 1,938,673
-------------
Net investment loss $ (148,812)
-------------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS
AND FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS:
Net realized gain on:
Investments $ 8,717,785
Forward foreign currency contracts and other assets
and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies 177,644 $ 8,895,429
------------- -------------
Change in net unrealized gain (loss) on:
Investments $ (44,574,797)
Forward foreign currency contracts and other assets
and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies 9,906 $ (44,564,891)
------------- -------------
Net loss on investments and foreign currency
transactions $ (35,669,462)
-------------
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations $ (35,818,274)
=============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 21
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the Six Months Ended 2/29/08 and the Year Ended 8/31/07, respectively
Six Months
Ended
2/29/08 Year Ended
(unaudited) 8/31/07
FROM OPERATIONS:
Net investment income (loss) $ (148,812) $ 3,424,330
Net realized gain on investments and foreign currency
transactions 8,895,429 42,573,195
Change in net unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency transactions (44,564,891) (12,919,335)
------------- -------------
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting
from operations $ (35,818,274) $ 33,078,190
------------- -------------
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREOWNERS:
Net investment income:
Class A ($0.50 and $0.49 per share, respectively) $ (2,352,302) $ (2,128,405)
Class B ($0.09 and $0.03 per share, respectively) (65,718) (22,431)
Class C ($0.22 and $0.21 per share, respectively) (111,855) (104,920)
Class R ($0.00 and $0.25 per share, respectively) - (746)
Class Y ($0.69 and $0.70 per share, respectively) (949,445) (71,612)
Net realized gain:
Class A ($7.04 and $0.00 per share, respectively) (28,830,630) -
Class B ($7.04 and $0.00 per share, respectively) (4,332,748) -
Class C ($7.04 and $0.00 per share, respectively) (3,101,810) -
Class Y ($7.04 and $0.00 per share, respectively) (8,220,577) -
------------- -------------
Total distributions to shareowners $ (47,965,085) $ (2,328,114)
------------- -------------
FROM FUND SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
Net proceeds from sale of shares $ 16,205,650 $ 116,343,158
Reinvestment of distributions 42,197,230 2,024,983
Cost of shares repurchased (54,920,234) (76,555,407)
------------- -------------
Net increase in net assets resulting from
Fund share transactions $ 3,482,646 $ 41,812,734
------------- -------------
Net increase (decrease) in net assets $ (80,300,713) $ 72,562,810
NET ASSETS:
Beginning of period 278,401,012 205,838,202
------------- -------------
End of period $ 198,100,299 $ 278,401,012
============= =============
Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net
investment income, end of period $ (734,632) $ 2,893,500
============= =============
22 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial
statements.
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
'08 Shares '08 Amount '07 Shares '07 Amount
(unaudited) (unaudited)
CLASS A
Shares sold 230,669 $ 8,845,846 1,253,028 $ 52,767,998
Reinvestment of distributions 749,718 26,877,028 45,383 1,888,910
Less shares repurchased (964,063) (33,758,132) (1,168,617) (49,777,643)
-------- ------------- ---------- -------------
Net increase 16,324 $ 1,964,742 129,794 $ 4,879,265
======== ============= ========== =============
CLASS B
Shares sold 41,858 $ 1,456,719 271,524 $ 10,332,496
Reinvestment of distributions 129,202 4,114,085 587 22,308
Less shares repurchased (221,786) (7,353,415) (495,006) (18,997,460)
-------- ------------- ---------- -------------
Net decrease (50,726) $ (1,782,611) (222,895) $ (8,642,656)
======== ============= ========== =============
CLASS C
Shares sold 41,576 $ 1,403,149 181,764 $ 6,905,173
Reinvestment of distributions 87,217 2,755,587 2,420 91,199
Less shares repurchased (112,813) (3,650,653) (165,948) (6,470,838)
-------- ------------- ---------- -------------
Net increase 15,980 $ 508,083 18,236 $ 525,534
======== ============= ========== =============
CLASS R
Shares sold 522 $ 20,824
Reinvestment of distributions 18 746
Less shares repurchased (4,038) (168,760)
---------- -------------
Net decrease (3,498) $ (147,190)
========== =============
CLASS Y
Shares sold 108,179 $ 4,499,936 1,051,106 $ 46,316,667
Reinvestment of distributions 226,899 8,450,530 509 21,820
Less shares repurchased (287,192) (10,158,034) (26,042) (1,140,706)
-------- ------------- ---------- -------------
Net increase 47,886 $ 2,792,432 1,025,573 $ 45,197,781
======== ============= ========== =============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 23
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months
Ended Year
2/29/08 Ended
CLASS A (unaudited) 8/31/07
Net asset value, beginning of period $ 43.23 $ 37.83
--------- --------
Increase (decrease) from investment operations:
Net investment income (loss) $ (0.07) $ 0.58
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency transactions (4.97) 5.31
--------- --------
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations $ (5.04) $ 5.89
--------- --------
Distributions to shareowners:
Net investment income $ (0.50) $ (0.49)
Net realized gain (7.04) -
--------- --------
Total distributions $ (7.54) $ (0.49)
--------- --------
Redemption fee $ - $ -
--------- --------
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value $ (12.58) $ 5.40
--------- --------
Net asset value, end of period $ 30.65 $ 43.23
========= ========
Total return* (14.00)% 15.61%
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets+ 1.51%** 1.48%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets+ (0.08)%** 1.35%
Portfolio turnover rate 62%** 62%
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 130,497 $183,333
Ratios with no waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and no reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 1.55%** 1.48%
Net investment income (loss) (0.12)%** 1.35%
Ratios with waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 1.50%** 1.47%
Net investment income (loss) (0.07)%** 1.36%
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Year Year Year
Ended Ended Ended Ended
CLASS A 8/31/06 8/31/05 (a) 8/31/04 (a) 8/31/03 (a)
Net asset value, beginning of period $ 31.54 $ 27.25 $ 21.41 $ 19.51
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Increase (decrease) from investment operations:
Net investment income (loss) $ 0.50 $ 0.11 $ 0.20 $ 0.17
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency transactions 6.03 5.09 5.89 1.73
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations $ 6.53 $ 5.20 $ 6.09 $ 1.90
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Distributions to shareowners:
Net investment income $ (0.24) $ (0.19) $ (0.25) $ -
Net realized gain - (0.72) - -
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Total distributions $ (0.24) $ (0.91) $ (0.25) $ -
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Redemption fee $ 0.00(b) $ 0.00(b) $ - $ -
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value $ 6.29 $ 4.29 $ 5.84 $ 1.90
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Net asset value, end of period $ 37.83 $ 31.54 $ 27.25 $ 21.41
======== ======== ======= =========
Total return* 20.83% 24.53% 28.56% 9.73%
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets+ 1.66% 1.71% 1.25% 1.62%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets+ 1.47% 0.72% 1.58% 1.02%
Portfolio turnover rate 43% 149% 48% 67%
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $155,550 $129,215 $ 3,108 $ 914
Ratios with no waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and no reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 1.66% 2.21% 8.30% 16.15%
Net investment income (loss) 1.47% 0.22% (5.47)% (13.51)%
Ratios with waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 1.66% 1.69% 1.25% 1.62%
Net investment income (loss) 1.47% 0.74% 1.58% 1.02%
(a) Historical per-share amounts prior to June 24, 2005 have been adjusted to
reflect the conversion ratios utilized for the merger of the Europe Fund and
Europe Select Fund.
(b) Amount rounds to less than one cent per share.
* Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each
period, reinvestment of all distributions, the complete redemption of the
investment at net asset value at the end of each period, and no sales
charges. Total return would be reduced if sales charges were taken into
account.
** Annualized.
+ Ratios with no reduction for fees paid indirectly.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
24
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months
Ended Year
2/29/08 Ended
CLASS B (unaudited) 8/31/07
Net asset value, beginning of period $ 39.18 $ 34.26
--------- -------
Increase (decrease) from investment operations:
Net investment income (loss) $ (0.17) $ 0.22
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency transactions (4.49) 4.73
--------- -------
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations $ (4.66) $ 4.95
--------- -------
Distributions to shareowners:
Net investment income $ (0.09) $ (0.03)
Net realized gain (7.04) -
--------- -------
Total distributions $ (7.13) $ (0.03)
--------- -------
Redemption fee $ - $ -
--------- -------
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value $ (11.79) $ 4.92
--------- -------
Net asset value, end of period $ 27.39 $ 39.18
========= =======
Total return* (14.38)% 14.44%
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets+ 2.48%** 2.50%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets+ (1.06)%** 0.23%
Portfolio turnover rate 62%** 62%
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 17,253 $26,673
Ratios with no waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and no reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 2.67%** 2.50%
Net investment income (loss) (1.25)%** 0.23%
Ratios with waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 2.46%** 2.47%
Net investment income (loss) (1.04)%** 0.26%
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Year Year Year
Ended Ended Ended Ended
CLASS B 8/31/06 8/31/05 (a) 8/31/04 (a) 8/31/03 (a)
Net asset value, beginning of period $ 28.63 $ 24.85 $ 19.65 $ 18.10
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Increase (decrease) from investment operations:
Net investment income (loss) $ 0.24 $ (0.03) $ (0.02) $ (0.02)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency transactions 5.39 4.62 5.33 1.57
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations $ 5.63 $ 4.59 $ 5.31 $ 1.55
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Distributions to shareowners:
Net investment income $ - $ (0.09) $ (0.11) $ -
Net realized gain - (0.72) - -
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Total distributions $ - $ (0.81) $ (0.11) $ -
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Redemption fee $ 0.00(b) $ 0.00(b) $ - $ -
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value $ 5.63 $ 3.78 $ 5.20 $ 1.55
-------- -------- ------- ---------
Net asset value, end of period $ 34.26 $ 28.63 $ 24.85 $ 19.65
======== ======== ======= =========
Total return* 19.66% 23.19% 27.07% 8.57%
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets+ 2.65% 2.69% 2.17% 2.78%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets+ 0.36% (0.27)% 0.65% (0.01)%
Portfolio turnover rate 43% 149% 48% 67%
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 30,960 $ 42,249 $ 1,505 $ 457
Ratios with no waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and no reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 2.74% 3.32% 9.20% 17.41%
Net investment income (loss) 0.27% (0.90)% (6.38)% (14.73)%
Ratios with waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 2.65% 2.65% 2.17% 2.78%
Net investment income (loss) 0.36% (0.23)% 0.65% (0.01)%
(a) Historical per-share amounts prior to June 24, 2005 have been adjusted to
reflect the conversion ratios utilized for the merger of the Europe Fund and
Europe Select Fund.
(b) Amount rounds to less than one cent per share.
* Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each
period, reinvestment of all distributions, the complete redemption of the
investment at net asset value at the end of each period, and no sales
charges. Total return would be reduced if sales charges were taken into
account.
** Annualized.
+ Ratios with no reduction for fees paid indirectly.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
25
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months
Ended Year
2/29/08 Ended
CLASS C (unaudited) 8/31/07
Net asset value, beginning of period $ 38.95 $ 34.16
--------- -------
Increase (decrease) from investment operations:
Net investment income (loss) $ (0.19) $ 0.22
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency transactions (4.41) 4.78
--------- -------
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations $ (4.60) $ 5.00
--------- -------
Distributions to shareowners:
Net investment income $ (0.22) $ (0.21)
Net realized gain (7.04) -
--------- -------
Total distributions $ (7.26) $ (0.21)
--------- -------
Redemption fee $ - $ -
--------- -------
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value $ (11.86) $ 4.79
--------- -------
Net asset value, end of period $ 27.09 $ 38.95
========= =======
Total return* (14.37)% 14.67%
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets+ 2.37%** 2.29%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets+ (0.95)%** 0.60%
Portfolio turnover rate 62%** 62%
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 13,035 $18,120
Ratios with no waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and no reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 2.37%** 2.29%
Net investment income (loss) (0.95)%** 0.60%
Ratios with waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 2.36%** 2.28%
Net investment income (loss) (0.94)%** 0.61%
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Year Year Year
Ended Ended Ended Ended
CLASS C 8/31/06 8/31/05 (a) 8/31/04 (a) 8/31/03 (a)
Net asset value, beginning of period $ 28.60 $ 24.81 $ 19.63 $ 17.98
-------- ------- ------- ---------
Increase (decrease) from investment operations:
Net investment income (loss) $ 0.19 $ 0.01 $ 0.09 $ 0.07
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency transactions 5.44 4.61 5.34 1.58
-------- ------- ------- ---------
Net increase (decrease) from investment operations $ 5.63 $ 4.62 $ 5.43 $ 1.65
-------- ------- ------- ---------
Distributions to shareowners:
Net investment income $ (0.07) $ (0.13) $ (0.25) $ -
Net realized gain - (0.72) - -
-------- ------- ------- ---------
Total distributions $ (0.07) $ (0.85) $ (0.25) $ -
-------- ------- ------- ---------
Redemption fee $ 0.00(b) $ 0.02 $ - $ -
-------- ------- ------- ---------
Net increase (decrease) in net asset value $ 5.56 $ 3.79 $ 5.18 $ 1.65
-------- ------- ------- ---------
Net asset value, end of period $ 34.16 $ 28.60 $ 24.81 $ 19.63
======== ======= ======= =========
Total return* 19.73% 23.53% 27.67% 9.17%
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets+ 2.59% 2.41% 1.72% 2.27%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets+ 0.52% 0.35% 1.14% 0.54%
Portfolio turnover rate 43% 149% 48% 67%
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 15,270 $14,661 $ 1,557 $ 404
Ratios with no waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and no reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 2.59% 3.72% 8.75% 17.02%
Net investment income (loss) 0.52% (0.96)% (5.89)% (14.21)%
Ratios with waiver of management fees and assumption of
expenses by PIM and reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 2.59% 2.39% 1.72% 2.27%
Net investment income (loss) 0.52% 0.37% 1.14% 0.54%
(a) Historical per-share amounts prior to June 24, 2005 have been adjusted to
reflect the conversion ratios utilized for the merger of the Europe Fund and
Europe Select Fund.
(b) Amount rounds to less than one cent per share.
* Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each
period, reinvestment of all distributions, the complete redemption of the
investment at net asset value at the end of each period, and no sales
charges. Total return would be reduced if sales charges were taken into
account.
** Annualized.
+ Ratios with no reduction for fees paid indirectly.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
26
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six Months
Ended Year Year 6/24/05 (a)
2/29/08 Ended Ended to
(unaudited) 8/31/07 8/31/06 8/31/05
CLASS Y
Net asset value, beginning of period $ 44.64 $ 39.06 $ 32.54 $ 30.59
-------- ------- ------- -------
Increase (decrease) from investment
operations:
Net investment income (loss) $ (0.05) $ 0.89 $ 0.89 $ 0.07
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency
transactions (5.07) 5.39 6.04 1.88
-------- ------- ------- -------
Net increase (decrease) from
investment operations $ (5.12) $ 6.28 $ 6.93 $ 1.95
-------- ------- ------- -------
Distributions to shareowners:
Net investment income $ (0.69) $ (0.70) $ (0.41) $ -
Net realized gain (7.04) - - -
-------- ------- ------- -------
Net increase (decrease) in net
asset value $ (12.85) $ 5.58 $ 6.52 $ 1.95
-------- ------- ------- -------
Net asset value, end of period $ 31.79 $ 44.64 $ 39.06 $ 32.54
======== ======= ======= =======
Total return* (13.75)% 16.14% 21.50% 6.36%(b)
Ratio of net expenses to average
net assets+ 1.00%** 0.98% 1.10% 1.18%**
Ratio of net investment income to
average net assets+ 0.44%** 2.73% 2.00% 1.05%**
Portfolio turnover rate 62%** 62% 43% 149%
Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 37,315 $50,275 $ 3,927 $ 3,495
Ratios with no waiver of management
fees and assumption of expenses by
PIM and no reduction for fees
paid indirectly:
Net expenses 1.00%** 0.98% 1.10% 1.18%**
Net investment income 0.44%** 2.73% 2.00% 1.05%**
Ratios with waiver of management fees
and assumption of expenses by PIM
and reduction for fees paid indirectly:
Net expenses 1.00%** 0.98% 1.10% 1.18%**
Net investment income 0.44%** 2.73% 2.00% 1.05%**
(a) Class Y shares were first publicly offered on June 24, 2005.
(b) Not annualized.
* Assumes initial investment at net asset value at the beginning of each
period, reinvestment of all distributions, the complete redemption of the
investment at net asset value at the end of each period.
** Annualized.
+ Ratios with no reduction for fees paid indirectly.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 27
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2/29/08 (unaudited)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund (the Fund) is a Massachusetts business trust
registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as a diversified, open-end
management investment company. The investment objective of the Fund is
long-term growth of capital.
The Fund offers four classes of shares - Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class Y
shares. Class A, Class B and Class C Shares were first publicly offered on
December 29, 2000. Class Y shares were first publicly offered on June 24, 2005.
All Class R shares were liquidated on January 31, 2007. Each class of shares
represents an interest in the same portfolio of investments of the Fund and
have equal rights to voting, redemptions, dividends and liquidation, except
that each class of shares can bear different transfer agent and distribution
fees and have exclusive voting rights with respect to the distribution plans
that have been adopted by Class A, Class B and Class C shareowners,
respectively. There is no distribution plan for Class Y shares.
The Fund's financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S.
generally accepted accounting principles that require the management of the
Fund to, among other things, make estimates and assumptions that affect the
reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets
and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported
amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results
could differ from those estimates.
Investing in the securities of European issuers involves unique risks compared
to investing in securities of U.S. issuers. These risks are more pronounced to
the extent the Fund invests a significant portion of its investments in any one
European region. The Fund's prospectuses contain information regarding the
Fund's principal risks. Please refer to those documents when considering the
Fund's risks.
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the
Fund in the preparation of its financial statements, which are consistent with
those policies generally accepted in the investment company industry:
28
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A. Security Valuation
Security transactions are recorded as of trade date. The net asset value
of the Fund is computed once daily, on each day the New York Stock
Exchange (NYSE) is open, as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE.
In computing the net asset value, securities are valued at the last sale
price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Securities that
have not traded on the date of valuation, or securities for which sale
prices are not generally reported, are valued at the mean between the last
bid and asked prices. Securities for which market quotations are not
readily available are valued at their fair values as determined by, or
under the direction of, the Board of Trustees. The Fund invests primarily
in securities of non-U.S. issuers. The principal exchanges and markets for
such securities have closing times prior to the close of the NYSE.
However, the value of these securities may be influenced by changes in
global markets occurring after the closing times of the local exchanges
and markets up to the time the Fund determines its net asset value.
Consequently, the Board of Trustees of the Fund has determined that the
use of daily fair valuations as provided by a pricing service is
appropriate for the Fund. The Fund may also take into consideration other
significant events in determining the fair value of these securities.
Thus, the Fund's securities valuations may differ from prices reported by
the various local exchanges and markets. Temporary cash investments are
valued at cost which approximates market value.
Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except that certain
dividends where the ex-dividend date may have passed are recorded as soon
as the Fund becomes aware of the ex-dividend data in the exercise of
reasonable diligence. Interest income, including interest on income
bearing cash accounts, is recorded on the accrual basis, net of
unrecoverable foreign taxes withheld at the applicable country rates.
Gains and losses on sales of investments are calculated on the identified
cost method for both financial reporting and federal income tax purposes.
29
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2/29/08 (unaudited) (continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B. Foreign Currency Translation
The books and records of the Fund are maintained in U.S. dollars. Amounts
denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using
current exchange rates.
Net realized gains and losses on foreign currency transactions, if any,
represent, among other things, the net realized gains and losses on
foreign currency contracts, disposition of foreign currencies and the
difference between the amount of income accrued and the U.S. dollars
actually received. Further, the effects of changes in foreign currency
exchange rates on investments are not segregated in the statement of
operations from the effects of changes in market price of those securities
but are included with the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on
investments.
C. Forward Foreign Currency Contracts
The Fund enters into forward foreign currency contracts (contracts) for
the purchase or sale of a specific foreign currency at a fixed price on a
future date as a hedge or cross-hedge against either specific investment
transactions (settlement hedges) or portfolio positions (portfolio
hedges). All contracts are marked to market daily at the applicable
exchange rates and any resulting unrealized gains or losses are recorded
in the Fund's financial statements. The Fund records realized gains and
losses at the time a portfolio hedge is offset by entering into a closing
transaction or extinguished by delivery of the currency. Risks may arise
upon entering into these contracts from the potential inability of
counterparties to meet the terms of the contract and from unanticipated
movements in the value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar
(see Note 6).
D. Federal Income Taxes
It is the Fund's policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal
Revenue Code applicable to regulated investments companies and to
distribute all of its taxable income and net realized capital gains, if
any, to its shareowners. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is
required.
The amounts and characterizations of distributions to shareowners for
financial reporting purposes are determined in accordance with federal
income tax rules. Therefore, the sources of the Fund's
30
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
distributions may be shown in the accompanying financial statements as
from or in excess of net investment income or as from net realized gain on
investment transactions, or as from paid-in-capital, depending on the type
of book/tax differences that may exist.
The tax character of current year distributions will be determined at the
end of the fiscal year. The tax character of distributions paid during the
year ended August 31, 2007, was as follows:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2007
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distributions paid from:
Ordinary Income $2,328,114
----------
Total $2,328,114
==========
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following shows the components of distributable earnings on a
federal income tax basis at August 31, 2007:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2007
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Undistributed ordinary income $ 3,660,112
Undistributed long-term gain 33,837,240
Unrealized appreciation 32,862,789
-----------
Total $70,360,141
===========
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the fiscal year ending August 31, 2007, the Fund has elected
to pass through foreign tax credits of $743,762.
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation is
attributable to the tax deferral of losses on wash sales.
E. Fund Shares
The Fund records sales and repurchases of its shares as of trade date.
Pioneer Funds Distributor, Inc. (PFD), the principal underwriter for the
Fund and a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of UniCredito Italiano S.p.A.
(UniCredito Italiano), earned $24,825 in underwriting commissions on the
sale of Class A shares during the six months ended February 29, 2008.
31
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2/29/08 (unaudited) (continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
F. Class Allocations
Income, common expenses and realized and unrealized gains and losses are
calculated at the Fund level and allocated daily to each class of shares
based on their respective percentage of adjusted net assets at the
beginning of the day. Distribution fees are calculated based on the
average daily net asset value attributable to Class A, Class B and Class C
shares of the Fund, respectively (See Note 4). Class Y shares are not
subject to a distribution plan. Shareowners of each class participate in
all expenses and fees paid to the transfer agent, Pioneer Investment
Management Shareholder Services, Inc. (PIMSS), for its services, which are
allocated based on the number of accounts in each class and the ratable
allocation of related out-of-pocket expenses (see Note 3).
Distributions to shareowners are recorded as of the ex-dividend date.
Distributions paid by the Fund with respect to each class of shares are
calculated in the same manner, at the same time, and in the same amount,
except that Class A, Class B, Class C and Class Y shares can bear
different transfer agent and distribution expense rates.
2. Management Agreement
Pioneer Investment Management, Inc. (PIM), a wholly owned indirect subsidiary
of UniCredito Italiano, manages the Fund's portfolio. Management fees are
calculated daily at the annual rate of 0.85% of the Fund's average daily nets
assets up to $500 million; and 0.75% of the excess over $500 million. For the
six months ended February 29, 2008, the management fee was equivalent to a rate
of 0.85% of the average daily net assets for the period.
Effective October 1, 2007, PIM has contractually agreed to limit ordinary
operating expenses to the extent required to reduce Fund expenses to 1.50%,
2.40% and 2.40% of the average daily net assets attributable to Class A, Class
B and Class C shares, respectively. Class Y shares do not have an expense
limitation. These expense limitations are in effect through January 1, 2011 for
Class A shares and through January 1, 2009 for Class B and Class C shares.
Prior to October 1, 2007, PIM agreed to limit ordinary operating expenses to
the extent required to reduce Fund expenses to 1.75%, 2.65% and 2.65% of the
average daily net assets attributable to Class A, Class B and Class C shares,
respectively.
32
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In addition, under the management agreement, management fees, administrative
costs and fees for certain other services, including accounting, regulatory
reporting and insurance, are paid by the Fund. Included in "Due to affiliates"
reflected on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities is $4,893 in management
fees, administrative costs and certain other services payable to PIM at
February 29, 2008.
3. Transfer Agent
PIMSS, a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of UniCredito Italiano, provides
substantially all transfer agent and shareowner services to the Fund at
negotiated rates. Included in "Due to affiliates" reflected on the Statement of
Assets and Liabilities is $89,203 in transfer agent fees payable to PIMSS at
February 29, 2008.
4. Distribution Plans
The Fund adopted Plans of Distribution with respect to Class A, Class B and
Class C shares (Class A Plan, Class B Plan and Class C Plan) in accordance with
Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Currently under the Class
A Plan, PFD is reimbursed for distribution expenses in an amount of up to 0.25%
of the average daily net assets attributable to Class A shares. Pursuant to the
Class B Plan and the Class C Plan, the Fund pays PFD 1.00% of the average daily
net assets attributable to each class of shares. The fee consists of a 0.25%
service fee and a 0.75% distribution fee paid as compensation for personal
services and/or account maintenance services or distribution services with
regard to Class B and Class C shares. Included in "Due to affiliates" reflected
on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities is $1,770 in distribution fees
payable to PFD at February 29, 2008.
In addition, redemptions of each class of shares (except Class Y shares) may be
subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC). A CDSC of 1.00% may be
imposed on redemptions of certain net asset value purchases of Class A shares
within 18 months of purchase. Class B shares that are redeemed within five
years of purchase are subject to a CDSC at declining rates beginning at 4.00%,
based on the lower of cost or market value of shares being redeemed.
Redemptions of Class C shares within one year of purchase are subject to a CDSC
of 1.00%. Proceeds from the CDSCs are paid to PFD. For the six months ended
February 29, 2008, CDSCs in the amount of $36,282 were paid to PFD.
33
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2/29/08 (unaudited) (continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Expense Offset Arrangements
The Fund has entered into certain expense offset arrangements with PIMSS
resulting in a reduction in the Fund's total expenses due to interest earned on
cash held by PIMSS. For the six months ended February 29, 2008 the Fund's
expenses were reduced by $10,108 under such arrangements.
6. Forward Foreign Currency Contracts
At February 29, 2008, the Fund had entered into various contracts that obligate
the Fund to deliver currencies at specified future dates. At the maturity of a
contract, the Fund must make delivery of the foreign currency. Alternatively,
prior to the settlement date of a portfolio hedge, the Fund may close out such
contracts by entering into an offsetting hedge contract. At February 29, 2008,
the Fund had no outstanding portfolio hedges. The Fund's gross forward currency
settlement contracts receivable and payable were $2,186,353 and $2,187,144,
respectively, resulting in a net payable of $791 at February 29, 2008.
7. Line of Credit Facility
The Fund, along with certain other funds in the Pioneer Family of Funds (the
Funds), collectively participate in a $200 million committed, unsecured
revolving line of credit facility. Borrowings are used solely for temporary or
emergency purposes. The Fund may borrow up to the lesser of $200 million or the
limits set by its prospectus for borrowings. Interest on collective borrowings
is payable at the Federal Funds Rate plus 1/2% on an annualized basis. The
Funds pay an annual commitment fee for this facility. The commitment fee is
allocated among such Funds based on their respective borrowing limits. For the
six months ended February 29, 2008, the Fund had no borrowings under this
agreement.
8. New Pronouncements
In September 2006, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, Fair
Value Measurements (SFAS 157), was issued and is effective for fiscal years
beginning after November 15, 2007. SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a
framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value
measurements. Management is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of
SFAS 157 will have on the Fund's financial statement disclosures.
34
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pioneer Investment Management, Inc. (PIM) serves as the Fund's investment
adviser pursuant to an investment advisory agreement between PIM and the Fund.
The Trustees of the Fund, as required by law, determine annually whether to
continue the investment advisory agreement for the Fund.
In connection with their most recent consideration of the investment advisory
agreement for the Fund, the Trustees received and reviewed a substantial amount
of information provided by PIM in response to requests of the independent
Trustees and their independent legal counsel. The independent Trustees met on a
number of occasions with PIM and also separately with their independent legal
counsel to evaluate and discuss the information provided to them by PIM. At a
meeting held on November 13, 2007, based on their evaluation of the information
provided by PIM, the Trustees, including the independent Trustees voting
separately, unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory
agreement for another year.
In considering the continuation of the investment advisory agreement, the
Trustees considered various factors that they determined were relevant,
including the factors described below. The Trustees did not identify any single
factor as the controlling factor in determining to approve the continuation of
the agreement.
Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Trustees considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided
by PIM to the Fund, taking into account the investment objective and strategy
of the Fund and the information related to the Fund provided to the Trustees at
each quarterly meeting. The Trustees reviewed the terms of the investment
advisory agreement. The Trustees also reviewed PIM's investment approach for
the Fund and its research process. The Trustees considered the resources of PIM
and the personnel of PIM who provide investment management services to the
Fund. They also considered PIM's compliance and legal resources and personnel.
In addition, the Trustees considered the other services that PIM provides to
the Fund under the investment advisory agreement and that, as administrator,
PIM is responsible for the administration of the Fund's business and other
affairs. It was noted that PIM supervises and monitors the performance of the
Fund's service providers and provides the Fund with personnel (including
officers) as are necessary
35
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT (continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
for the Fund's operations. The Trustees considered the fees paid to PIM for the
provision of such services.
Based on these considerations, the Trustees concluded that the nature, extent
and quality of services provided by PIM to the Fund were satisfactory and
consistent with the terms of the investment advisory agreement.
Performance of the Fund
The Trustees considered the performance results of the Fund over various time
periods. They reviewed information comparing the Fund's performance with the
average performance of its peer group of funds as classified by Morningstar,
Inc. (Morningstar), an independent provider of investment company data, and
with the performance of the Fund's benchmark index. The Trustees considered
that the Fund's annualized total return was in the fifth quintile of its
Morningstar category for the one and three year periods ended June 30, 2007 and
in the third quintile of its Morningstar category for the five year period
ended June 30, 2007. (In all quintile rankings referred to throughout this
disclosure, first quintile is most favorable to the Fund's shareowners. Thus,
highest relative performance would be first quintile and lowest relative
expenses would also be first quintile.) After discussing the reasons for the
Fund's underperformance with PIM, the Trustees agreed that they would continue
to monitor the performance of the Fund especially closely.
Management Fee and Expenses
The Trustees considered information on the fees and expenses of the Fund in
comparison to the management fees of its peer group of funds as classified by
Morningstar and the expense ratios of a peer group of funds selected on the
basis of criteria determined by the independent Trustees for this purpose using
data provided by Strategic Insight Mutual Fund Research and Consulting, LLC
(Strategic Insight), an independent third party.
The Trustees considered that the Fund's management fee for the twelve months
ended June 30, 2007 was in the third quintile relative to the management fees
paid by other funds in its peer group Morningstar category for the comparable
period. The Trustees also considered that the Fund's expense ratio for the
twelve months ended June 30, 2007 was in the fifth quintile relative to its
Strategic Insight peer group. The Trustees noted PIM's agreement to lower the
contractual expense limitation for the Fund and that the lowered
36
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
expense cap was in line with the median expense ratio of the Fund's Strategic
Insight peer group for the twelve months ended June 30, 2007. It was noted that
PIM did not currently manage any accounts with an investment objective and
strategies that were similar to the Fund.
The Trustees concluded that the management fee payable by the Fund to PIM was
reasonable in relation to the nature and quality of services provided, taking
into account the fees charged by other advisers for managing comparable mutual
funds with similar strategies. The Trustees also concluded that the Fund's
expense ratio was reasonable, taking into account the size of the Fund, the
quality of services provided by PIM, the investment performance of the Fund and
the lower contractual expense limitation agreed to by PIM with respect to the
Fund.
Profitability
The Trustees considered information provided by PIM regarding the profitability
of PIM with respect to the advisory services provided by PIM to the Fund,
including the methodology used by PIM in allocating certain of its costs to the
management of the Fund. The Trustees also considered PIM's profit margin in
connection with the overall operation of the Fund. They further reviewed the
financial results realized by PIM and its affiliates from non-fund businesses.
The Trustees considered PIM's profit margins with respect to the Fund in
comparison to the limited industry data available and noted that the
profitability of any adviser was affected by numerous factors, including its
organizational structure and method for allocating expenses. The Trustees
recognized that PIM should be entitled to earn a reasonable level of profit for
the services provided to the Fund. The Trustees concluded that PIM's
profitability with respect to the management of the Fund was not unreasonable.
Economies of Scale
The Trustees considered the economies of scale with respect to the management
of the Fund, whether the Fund had appropriately benefited from any economies of
scale, and whether there was potential for realization of any further economies
of scale. The Trustees concluded that, because of the breakpoints in the
management fee schedule and the reduced fee rates above certain asset levels,
any perceived or potential economies of scale would be shared between PIM and
the Fund.
37
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT (continued)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Benefits
The Trustees considered the other benefits to PIM from its relationship with
the Fund. The Trustees considered that affiliates of PIM serve as the Fund's
transfer agent and distributor. The Trustees considered the receipt by PIM and
its affiliates of sales loads and payments under Rule 12b-1 plans in respect of
the Fund and the other Pioneer funds and the benefits to PIM and its affiliates
from the use of "soft" commission dollars generated by the Fund to pay for
research and brokerage services. The Trustees further considered the intangible
benefits to PIM by virtue of its relationship with the Fund and the other
Pioneer funds. The Trustees concluded that the receipt of these benefits was
reasonable in the context of the overall relationship between PIM and the Fund.
Conclusion
After consideration of the factors described above as well as other factors,
the Trustees, including all of the independent Trustees, concluded that the
terms of the investment advisory agreement between PIM and the Fund, including
the fees payable thereunder, were fair and reasonable and voted to approve the
proposed continuation of the investment advisory agreement for the Fund.
38
Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TRUSTEES, OFFICERS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trustees Officers
John F. Cogan, Jr., Chairman John F. Cogan, Jr., President
David R. Bock Daniel K. Kingsbury, Executive Vice President
Mary K. Bush Vincent Nave, Treasurer
Margaret B.W. Graham Dorothy E. Bourassa, Secretary
Daniel K. Kingsbury
Thomas J. Perna
Marguerite A. Piret
Stephen K. West
John Winthrop
Investment Adviser and Administrator
Pioneer Investment Management, Inc.
Custodian
Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.
Principal Underwriter
Pioneer Funds Distributor, Inc.
Legal Counsel
Bingham McCutchen LLP
Shareowner Services and Transfer Agent
Pioneer Investment Management Shareholder Services, Inc.
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures of the Fund are available without charge,
upon request, by calling our toll free number (1-800-225-6292). Information
regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during
the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is publicly available to
shareowners at www.pioneerinvestments.com. This information is also available
on the Securities and Exchange Commission's web site at http://www.sec.gov.
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HOW TO CONTACT PIONEER
We are pleased to offer a variety of convenient ways for you to contact us for
assistance or information.
Call us for:
Account Information, including existing accounts,
new accounts, prospectuses, applications
and service forms 1-800-225-6292
FactFone(SM) for automated fund yields, prices,
account information and transactions 1-800-225-4321
Retirement plans information 1-800-622-0176
Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) 1-800-225-1997
Write to us:
PIMSS, Inc.
P.O. Box 55014
Boston, Massachusetts 02205-5014
Our toll-free fax 1-800-225-4240
Our internet e-mail address ask.pioneer@pioneerinvestments.com
(for general questions about Pioneer only)
Visit our web site: www.pioneerinvestments.com
Before investing consider the Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges and
expenses. Contact your advisor or Pioneer Investments for a prospectus
containing this information. Read it carefully.
The Fund files a complete schedule of investments with the Securities and
Exchange Commission for the first and third quarters for each fiscal year on
Form N-Q. Shareholders may view the filed Form N-Q by visiting the Commission's
web site at http://www.sec.gov. The filed form may also be viewed and copied at
the Commission's Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information regarding
the operations of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling
1-800-SEC-0330.
ITEM 2. CODE OF ETHICS.
(a) Disclose whether, as of the end of the period covered by the report, the
registrant has adopted a code of ethics that applies to the registrant's
principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting
officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, regardless of
whether these individuals are employed by the registrant or a third party. If
the registrant has not adopted such a code of ethics, explain why it has not
done so.
The registrant has adopted, as of the end of the period covered by this report,
a code of ethics that applies to the registrant's principal executive officer,
principal financial officer, principal accounting officer and controller.
(b) For purposes of this Item, the term "code of ethics" means written standards
that are reasonably designed to deter wrongdoing and to promote:
(1) Honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual
or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional
relationships;
(2) Full, fair, accurate, timely, and understandable disclosure in
reports and documents that a registrant files with, or submits to, the
Commission and in other public communications made by the registrant;
(3) Compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules, and
regulations;
(4) The prompt internal reporting of violations of the code to an
appropriate person or persons identified in the code; and
(5) Accountability for adherence to the code.
(c) The registrant must briefly describe the nature of any amendment, during the
period covered by the report, to a provision of its code of ethics that applies
to the registrant's principal executive officer, principal financial officer,
principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar
functions, regardless of whether these individuals are employed by the
registrant or a third party, and that relates to any element of the code of
ethics definition enumerated in paragraph (b) of this Item. The registrant must
file a copy of any such amendment as an exhibit pursuant to Item 10(a), unless
the registrant has elected to satisfy paragraph (f) of this Item by posting its
code of ethics on its website pursuant to paragraph (f)(2) of this Item, or by
undertaking to provide its code of ethics to any person without charge, upon
request, pursuant to paragraph (f)(3) of this Item.
The registrant has made no amendments to the code of ethics during the period
covered by this report.
(d) If the registrant has, during the period covered by the report, granted a
waiver, including an implicit waiver, from a provision of the code of ethics to
the registrant's principal executive officer, principal financial officer,
principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar
functions, regardless of whether these individuals are employed by the
registrant or a third party, that relates to one or more of the items set forth
in paragraph (b) of this Item, the registrant must briefly describe the nature
of the waiver, the name of the person to whom the waiver was granted, and the
date of the waiver.
Not applicable.
(e) If the registrant intends to satisfy the disclosure requirement under
paragraph (c) or (d) of this Item regarding an amendment to, or a waiver from,
a provision of its code of ethics that applies to the registrant's principal
executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or
controller, or persons performing similar functions and that relates to any
element of the code of ethics definition enumerated in paragraph (b) of this
Item by posting such information on its Internet website, disclose the
registrant's Internet address and such intention.
Not applicable.
(f) The registrant must:
(1) File with the Commission, pursuant to Item 10(a), a copy of its code
of ethics that applies to the registrant's principal executive officer,
principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller,
or persons performing similar functions, as an exhibit to its annual
report on this Form N-CSR;
(2) Post the text of such code of ethics on its Internet website and
disclose, in its most recent report on this Form N-CSR, its Internet
address and the fact that it has posted such code of ethics on its
Internet website; or
(3) Undertake in its most recent report on this Form N-CSR to provide to
any person without charge, upon request, a copy of such code of ethics
and explain the manner in which such request may be made.
See Item 10(2)
ITEM 3. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT.
(a) (1) Disclose that the registrant's board of trustees has determined that
the registrant either:
(i) Has at least one audit committee financial expert serving on its audit
committee; or
(ii) Does not have an audit committee financial expert serving on its audit
committee.
The registrant's Board of Trustees has determined that the registrant has at
least one audit committee financial expert.
(2) If the registrant provides the disclosure required by paragraph
(a)(1)(i) of this Item, it must disclose the name of the audit committee
financial expert and whether that person is "independent." In order to be
considered "independent" for purposes of this Item, a member of an audit
committee may not, other than in his or her capacity as a member of the audit
committee, the board of trustees, or any other board committee:
(i) Accept directly or indirectly any consulting, advisory, or other
compensatory fee from the issuer; or
(ii) Be an "interested person" of the investment company as defined in
Section 2(a)(19) of the Act (15 U.S.C. 80a-2(a)(19)).
Ms. Marguerite A. Piret, an independent trustee, is such an audit committee
financial expert.
(3) If the registrant provides the disclosure required by paragraph (a)(1)
(ii) of this Item, it must explain why it does not have an audit committee
financial expert.
Not applicable.
ITEM 4. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.
(a) Disclose, under the caption 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.
N/A
(b) Disclose, under the caption 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. Registrants shall describe the nature of the
services comprising the fees disclosed under this category.
N/A
(c) Disclose, under the caption 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. Registrants shall
describe the nature of the services comprising the fees disclosed under this
category.
N/A
(d) Disclose, under the caption 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. Registrants shall describe the nature of the services
comprising the fees disclosed under this category.
N/A
(e) (1) Disclose the audit committee's pre-approval policies and procedures
described in paragraph (c)(7) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.
PIONEER FUNDS
APPROVAL OF AUDIT, AUDIT-RELATED, TAX AND OTHER SERVICES
PROVIDED BY THE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR
SECTION I - POLICY PURPOSE AND APPLICABILITY
The Pioneer Funds recognize the importance of maintaining the independence of
their outside auditors. Maintaining independence is a shared responsibility
involving Pioneer Investment Management, Inc ("PIM"), the audit committee and
the independent auditors.
The Funds recognize that a Fund's independent auditors: 1) possess knowledge of
the Funds, 2) are able to incorporate certain services into the scope of the
audit, thereby avoiding redundant work, cost and disruption of Fund personnel
and processes, and 3) have expertise that has value to the Funds. As a result,
there are situations where it is desirable to use the Fund's independent
auditors for services in addition to the annual audit and where the potential
for conflicts of interests are minimal. Consequently, this policy, which is
intended to comply with Rule 210.2-01(C)(7), sets forth guidelines and
procedures to be followed by the Funds when retaining the independent audit firm
to perform audit, audit-related tax and other services under those
circumstances, while also maintaining independence.
Approval of a service in accordance with this policy for a Fund shall also
constitute approval for any other Fund whose pre-approval is required pursuant
to Rule 210.2-01(c)(7)(ii).
In addition to the procedures set forth in this policy, any non-audit services
that may be provided consistently with Rule 210.2-01 may be approved by the
Audit Committee itself and any pre-approval that may be waived in accordance
with Rule 210.2-01(c)(7)(i)(C) is hereby waived.
Selection of a Fund's independent auditors and their compensation shall be
determined by the Audit Committee and shall not be subject to this policy.
SECTION II - POLICY
- ---------------- -------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------
SERVICE SERVICE CATEGORY DESCRIPTION SPECIFIC PRE-APPROVED SERVICE SUBCATEGORIES
CATEGORY
- ---------------- -------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------
I. AUDIT Services that are directly o Accounting research assistance
SERVICES related to performing the o SEC consultation, registration
independent audit of the Funds statements, and reporting
o Tax accrual related matters
o Implementation of new accounting
standards
o Compliance letters (e.g. rating agency
letters)
o Regulatory reviews and assistance
regarding financial matters
o Semi-annual reviews (if requested)
o Comfort letters for closed end
offerings
- ---------------- -------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------
II. Services which are not o AICPA attest and agreed-upon procedures
AUDIT-RELATED prohibited under Rule o Technology control assessments
SERVICES 210.2-01(C)(4) (the "Rule") o Financial reporting control assessments
and are related extensions of o Enterprise security architecture
the audit services support the assessment
audit, or use the
knowledge/expertise gained
from the audit procedures as a
foundation to complete the
project. In most cases, if
the Audit-Related Services are
not performed by the Audit
firm, the scope of the Audit
Services would likely
increase. The Services are
typically well-defined and
governed by accounting
professional standards (AICPA,
SEC, etc.)
- ---------------- -------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------- ------------------------------------
AUDIT COMMITTEE APPROVAL POLICY AUDIT COMMITTEE
REPORTING POLICY
------------------------------------- ------------------------------------
o "One-time" pre-approval o A summary of all such
for the audit period for all services and related fees
pre-approved specific service reported at each regularly
subcategories. Approval of the scheduled Audit Committee
independent auditors as meeting.
auditors for a Fund shall
constitute pre approval for
these services.
------------------------------------- ------------------------------------
o "One-time" pre-approval o A summary of all such
for the fund fiscal year within services and related fees
a specified dollar limit (including comparison to
for all pre-approved specified dollar limits)
specific service subcategories reported quarterly.
o Specific approval is
needed to exceed the
pre-approved dollar limit for
these services (see general
Audit Committee approval policy
below for details on obtaining
specific approvals)
o Specific approval is
needed to use the Fund's
auditors for Audit-Related
Services not denoted as
"pre-approved", or
to add a specific service
subcategory as "pre-approved"
------------------------------------- ------------------------------------
SECTION III - POLICY DETAIL, CONTINUED
- ----------------------- --------------------------- -----------------------------------------------
SERVICE CATEGORY SERVICE CATEGORY SPECIFIC PRE-APPROVED SERVICE SUBCATEGORIES
DESCRIPTION
- ----------------------- --------------------------- -----------------------------------------------
III. TAX SERVICES Services which are not o Tax planning and support
prohibited by the Rule, o Tax controversy assistance
if an officer of the Fund o Tax compliance, tax returns, excise
determines that using the tax returns and support
Fund's auditor to provide o Tax opinions
these services creates
significant synergy in
the form of efficiency,
minimized disruption, or
the ability to maintain a
desired level of
confidentiality.
- ----------------------- --------------------------- -----------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------- -------------------------
AUDIT COMMITTEE APPROVAL POLICY AUDIT COMMITTEE
REPORTING POLICY
- ------------------------------------- -------------------------
- ------------------------------------- -------------------------
o "One-time" pre-approval o A summary of
for the fund fiscal year all such services and
within a specified dollar limit related fees
(including comparison
to specified dollar
limits) reported
quarterly.
o Specific approval is
needed to exceed the
pre-approved dollar limits for
these services (see general
Audit Committee approval policy
below for details on obtaining
specific approvals)
o Specific approval is
needed to use the Fund's
auditors for tax services not
denoted as pre-approved, or to add a specific
service subcategory as
"pre-approved"
- ------------------------------------- -------------------------
SECTION III - POLICY DETAIL, CONTINUED
- ----------------------- --------------------------- -----------------------------------------------
SERVICE CATEGORY SERVICE CATEGORY SPECIFIC PRE-APPROVED SERVICE SUBCATEGORIES
DESCRIPTION
- ----------------------- --------------------------- -----------------------------------------------
IV. OTHER SERVICES Services which are not o Business Risk Management support
prohibited by the Rule, o Other control and regulatory
A. SYNERGISTIC, if an officer of the Fund compliance projects
UNIQUE QUALIFICATIONS determines that using the
Fund's auditor to provide
these services creates
significant synergy in
the form of efficiency,
minimized disruption,
the ability to maintain a
desired level of
confidentiality, or where
the Fund's auditors
posses unique or superior
qualifications to provide
these services, resulting
in superior value and
results for the Fund.
- ----------------------- --------------------------- -----------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------- ------------------------
AUDIT COMMITTEE APPROVAL POLICY AUDIT COMMITTEE
REPORTING POLICY
- ------------------------------------- --------------------------
o "One-time" pre-approval o A summary of
for the fund fiscal year within all such services and
a specified dollar limit related fees
(including comparison
to specified dollar
limits) reported
quarterly.
o Specific approval is
needed to exceed the
pre-approved dollar limits for
these services (see general
Audit Committee approval policy
below for details on obtaining
specific approvals)
o Specific approval is
needed to use the Fund's
auditors for "Synergistic" or
"Unique Qualifications" Other
Services not denoted as
pre-approved to the left, or to
add a specific service
subcategory as "pre-approved"
- ------------------------------------- --------------------------
SECTION III - POLICY DETAIL, CONTINUED
- ----------------------- ------------------------- -----------------------------------------------
SERVICE CATEGORY SERVICE CATEGORY SPECIFIC PROHIBITED SERVICE SUBCATEGORIES
DESCRIPTION
- ----------------------- ------------------------- -----------------------------------------------
PROHIBITED SERVICES Services which result 1. Bookkeeping or other services
in the auditors losing related to the accounting records or
independence status financial statements of the audit
under the Rule. client*
2. Financial information systems design
and implementation*
3. Appraisal or valuation services,
fairness* opinions, or
contribution-in-kind reports
4. Actuarial services (i.e., setting
actuarial reserves versus actuarial
audit work)*
5. Internal audit outsourcing services*
6. Management functions or human
resources
7. Broker or dealer, investment
advisor, or investment banking services
8. Legal services and expert services
unrelated to the audit
9. Any other service that the Public
Company Accounting Oversight Board
determines, by regulation, is
impermissible
- ----------------------- ------------------------- -----------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------- ------------------------------
AUDIT COMMITTEE APPROVAL POLICY AUDIT COMMITTEE
REPORTING POLICY
- ------------------------------------------- ------------------------------
o These services are not to be o A summary of all
performed with the exception of the(*) services and related
services that may be permitted fees reported at each
if they would not be subject to audit regularly scheduled
procedures at the audit client (as Audit Committee meeting
defined in rule 2-01(f)(4)) level will serve as continual
the firm providing the service. confirmation that has
not provided any
restricted services.
- ------------------------------------------- ------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GENERAL AUDIT COMMITTEE APPROVAL POLICY:
o For all projects, the officers of the Funds and the Fund's auditors will each
make an assessment to determine that any proposed projects will not impair
independence.
o Potential services will be classified into the four non-restricted service
categories and the "Approval of Audit, Audit-Related, Tax and Other
Services" Policy above will be applied. Any services outside the specific
pre-approved service subcategories set forth above must be specifically
approved by the Audit Committee.
o At least quarterly, the Audit Committee shall review a report summarizing the
services by service category, including fees, provided by the Audit firm as
set forth in the above policy.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) Disclose the percentage of services described in each of paragraphs (b)
through (d) of this Item that were approved by the audit committee pursuant
to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.
N/A
(f) If greater than 50 percent, disclose 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.
N/A
(g) Disclose 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.
N/A
(h) Disclose whether the registrant's audit committee of the board of trustees
has considered whether the provision of non-audit services that were rendered to
the registrant's investment adviser (not including any subadviser 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 investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the
registrant that were not pre-approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of
Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X is compatible with maintaining the principal
accountant's independence.
The Fund's audit committee of the Board of Trustees has
considered whether the provision of non-audit services that
were rendered to the Affiliates (as defined) that were not pre-
approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of
Regulation S-X is compatible with maintaining the principal
accountant's independence.
Item 5. Audit Committee of Listed Registrants
(a) If the registrant is a listed issuer as defined in Rule 10A-3
under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.10A-3), state whether
or not the registrant has a separately-designated standing
audit committee established in accordance with Section
3(a)(58)(A) of the Exchange Act (15 U.S.C. 78c(a)(58)(A)).
If the registrant has such a committee, however designated,
identify each committee member. If the entire board of directors
is acting as the registrants audit committee as specified in
Section 3(a)(58)(B) of the Exchange Act (15 U.S.C. 78c(a)(58)(B)),
so state.
N/A
(b) If applicable, provide the disclosure required by Rule 10A-3(d)
under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.10A-3(d)) regarding an exemption
from the listing standards for audit committees.
N/A
Item 6. Schedule of Investments.
File Schedule I Investments in securities of unaffiliated issuers
as of the close of the reporting period as set forth in 210.12-
12 of Regulation S-X [17 CFR 210.12-12], unless the schedule is
included as part of the report to shareholders filed under Item
1 of this Form.
Included in Item 1
ITEM 7. DISCLOSURE OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR
CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.
A closed-end management investment company that is filing an annual report on
this Form N-CSR must, unless it invests exclusively in non-voting securities,
describe the policies and procedures that it uses to determine how to vote
proxies relating to portfolio securities, including the procedures that the
company uses when a vote presents a conflict between the interests of its
shareholders, on the one hand, and those of the company's investment adviser;
principal underwriter; or any affiliated person (as defined in Section 2(a)(3)
of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (15 U.S.C. 80a-2(a)(3)) and the rules
thereunder) of the company, its investment adviser, or its principal
underwriter, on the other. Include any policies and procedures of the company's
investment adviser, or any other third party, that the company uses, or that are
used on the company's behalf, to determine how to vote proxies relating to
portfolio securities.
Not applicable to open-end management investment companies.
Item 8. Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment
Companies.
(a) If the registrant is a closed-end management investment company that
is filing an annual report on this Form N-CSR,provide the following
information:
(1) State the name, title, and length of service of the person or persons
employed by or associated with the registrant or an investment adviser
of the registrant who are primarily responsible for the day-to-day management
of the registrants portfolio (Portfolio Manager). Also state each Portfolio
Managers business experience during the past 5 years.
Not applicable to open-end management investment companies.
Item 9. Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management
Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers.
(a) If the registrant is a closed-end management investment company,
in the following tabular format, provide the information specified in
paragraph (b) of this Item with respect to any purchase made by or on
behalf of the registrant or any affiliated purchaser, as defined in
Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.10b-18(a)(3)), of
shares or other units of any class of the registrants equity securities
that is registered by the registrant pursuant to Section 12 of the
Exchange Act (15 U.S.C. 781). Instruction to paragraph (a). Disclose
all purchases covered by this Item, including purchases that do not
satisfy the conditions of the safe harbor of Rule 10b-18 under the
Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.10b-18), made in the period covered by the
report. Provide disclosures covering repurchases made on a monthly basis.
For example, if the reporting period began on January 16 and ended on
July 15, the chart would show repurchases for the months from January 16
through February 15, February 16 through March 15, March 16 through
April 15, April 16 through May 15, May 16 through June 15, and June 16
through July 15.
Not applicable to open-end management investment companies.
Item 10. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.
Describe any material changes to the procedures by which shareholders
may recommend nominees to the registrants board of directors, where
those changes were implemented after the registrant last provided
disclosure in response to the requirements of Item 7(d)(2)(ii)(G)
of Schedule 14A (17 CFR 240.14a-101), or this Item.
There have been no material changes to the procedures by which the
shareholders may recommend nominees to the registrants board of
directors since the registrant last provided disclosure in response
to the requirements of Item 7(d)(2)(ii)(G) of Schedule 14(A) in
its definitive proxy statement, or this Item.
ITEM 11. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
(a) Disclose the conclusions of the registrant's principal executive officer or
officers and principal financial officer or officers, or persons performing
similar functions, about the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure
controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-2(c) under the Act (17 CFR
270.30a-2(c))) based on their evaluation of these controls and procedures as of
a date within 90 days of the filing date of the report that includes the
disclosure required by this paragraph.
The registrant's principal executive officer
and principal financial officer have
concluded that the registrant's disclosure
controls and procedures 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) Disclose whether or not there were significant changes in the registrant's
internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect these
controls subsequent to the date of their evaluation, including any corrective
actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.
There were no significant changes in the
registrant's internal control over financial
reporting that occurred during the second
fiscal quarter of 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.
The registrant's principal executive officer and principal financial
officer, however, voluntarily are reporting the following information:
In August of 2006 the registrant's investment adviser
enhanced its internal procedures for reporting performance
information required to be included in prospectuses.
Those enhancements involved additional internal controls
over the appropriateness of performance data
generated for this purpose. Such enhancements were made
following an internal review which identified
prospectuses relating to certain classes of shares of
a limited number of registrants where, inadvertently,
performance information not reflecting the deduction of
applicable sales charges was included. Those prospectuses
were revised, and the revised prospectuses were distributed to
shareholders.
ITEM 12. EXHIBITS.
File the exhibits listed below as part of this Form. Letter or number the
exhibits in the sequence indicated.
(a) Any code of ethics, or amendment thereto, that is the subject of the
disclosure required by Item 2, to the extent that the registrant intends to
satisfy the Item 2 requirements through filing of an exhibit.
(b) A separate certification for each principal executive officer and principal
financial officer of the registrant as required by Rule 30a-2 under the Act
(17 CFR 270.30a-2).
Filed herewith.
SIGNATURES
[See General Instruction F]
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) Pioneer Europe Select Equity Fund
By (Signature and Title)* /s/ John F. Cogan, Jr.
John F. Cogan, Jr, President
Date April 29, 2008
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 (Signature and Title)* /s/ John F. Cogan, Jr.
John F. Cogan, Jr., President
Date April 29, 2008
By (Signature and Title)* /s/ Vincent Nave
Vincent Nave, Treasurer
Date April 29, 2008
* Print the name and title of each signing officer under his or her signature.