N-CSRS 1 fp0019782_ncsrs.htm
 
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: 811-22747

ALPS SERIES TRUST
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

1290 Broadway, Suite 1100, Denver, Colorado 80203
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

303.623.2577
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

JoEllen L. Legg, Esq., Secretary
ALPS Series Trust
1290 Broadway, Suite 1100
Denver, CO 80203
(Name and address of agent for service)

Date of fiscal year end:     September 30

Date of reporting period:   October 1, 2015 – March 31, 2016

Item 1.   Reports to Stockholders.
 
 

Table of Contents
 
Shareholder Letter
2
Portfolio Update
4
Disclosure of Fund Expenses
7
Portfolio of Investments
8
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
10
Statement of Operations
11
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
12
Financial Highlights
13
Notes to Financial Statements
15
Additional Information
22
 

Item 1. Reports to Stockholders.
 
Clarkston Partners Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
For the six months ended March 31, 2016, the Institutional Class of the Clarkston Partners Fund (the “Fund”) gained 7.24%, outperforming the Russell 2500TM Index (the “Index”), which gained only 3.68%.  Since its inception on September 15, 2015 through March 31, 2016, the Fund was up 4.02% versus a decline of -1.52% for the Index.

Performance was broad based as 15 of the total 26 holdings in the Fund gained more than 10% during the six-month period.  The Fund included eight holdings in the Producer Durables sector, which made up about 18% of the Fund.  Those eight holdings contributed over half of the performance (380 basis points). There was one company in the Materials & Processing sector; that holding gained over 31% and added more than 60 basis points to performance.  The Consumer Staples sector made up approximately 4% of the Fund and accounted for about 100 basis points of performance. No sector contributed negatively to performance during the period although some sectors contributed less to performance. The lowest contributors included the Health Care, Technology, and Consumer Discretionary sectors. The Health Care sector contributed 20 basis points, while the Technology and Consumer Discretionary sectors contributed 40 and 56 basis points, respectively. In addition, with a Fund weight of 33.76%, the largest, the Financial Services sector experienced the lowest total return at about 3.3%, but still contributed 128 basis points to performance. Some of the best individual performers were Actuant (ATU), Fastenal (FAST), and Graco (GGG). Collectively, these holdings contributed 230 basis points of performance during the period. Conversely, LPL Financial Holdings (LPLA) and Legg Mason (LM) were the only two negative contributors to performance, impacting the Fund by -148 basis points on a combined basis.

As absolute investors, we will not initiate new positions in the Fund unless the investment (at a minimum) meets our hurdle of a 10% internal rate of return (“IRR”) based on our assessment of the company’s normalized free cash flow relative to its current market value plus our estimate of organic growth. During most of 2015, we waited patiently for opportunities as few businesses in the Fund and on our “bench” exceeded our 10% IRR target. Furthermore, due to a lack of volatility, the valuations of the Fund’s existing positions remained relatively steady and we did not find many occasions to add to those positions.  Consequently, while 2015 was a busy year for analyzing businesses, few investments met the criteria of our strategy and there was little change in the composition of the Fund.  Hence, we waited patiently for opportunities to deploy cash.

That waiting ended abruptly in late 2015. The general market volatility facilitated by a global slowdown, falling commodity prices, and uncertainty surrounding Federal Reserve actions transformed into an outright sell-off in early January 2016.  The downward trajectory continued through mid-February as the Index hit a multi-year low on February 11, 2016.  On that day, the Index was down more than 15% for the year, while the Fund had fallen about 8%.

As a result, attractive investment opportunities finally presented themselves in the first quarter of 2016. The sell-off led to a sudden rise in IRRs for both our holdings and “bench” companies. While the average IRR for Fund holdings was just over 10% for most of 2015, it reached a more attractive level in the 12% range during the February lows. We capitalized on the opportunity by allocating seven percentage points of cash to two new and five existing holdings that had IRRs over 10%, bringing our cash position down from 26% to about 19%. Throughout the remainder of the quarter, the market recovered and IRRs for Fund holdings and our “bench” companies generally returned to levels closer to 10%. The subsequent market recovery and shareholder inflows allowed us to tax-efficiently raise the Fund’s cash position to approximately 25%.
 

2 
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Clarkston Partners Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
While we cannot predict the future, we will continue to conduct in-depth research and analysis to seek to capitalize on investment opportunities in any market environment. We will remain true to our process and invest in high-quality businesses that we believe will provide attractive long-term returns to benefit shareholders.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey A. Hakala, CFA, CPA
Jerry W. Hakala, CFA
Jeremy J. Modell
     
-s-Jeffrey A. Hakala  -s-Jerry W. Hakala  -s-Jeremy J. Modell 
 
The views and information discussed in this letter are as of the date of publication, are subject to change, and may not reflect the writer’s current views. The views expressed are those of the Fund’s adviser only, and represent an assessment of market conditions at a specific point in time, are opinions only and should not be relied upon as investment advice regarding a particular investment or markets in general. Such information does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell specific securities or investment vehicles. It should not be assumed that any investment will be profitable or will equal the performance of the Fund or any securities or any sectors mentioned in this letter. The subject matter contained in this letter has been derived from several sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of compilation. Neither the Fund nor the Fund’s adviser accepts any liability for losses either direct or consequential caused by the use of this information.

One basis point is equal to 0.01% or 1/100th of 1%.

Not FDIC Insured – No Bank Guarantee – May Lose Value

Past performance does not guarantee future results. The performance contained in this letter is for the Institutional Class of the Fund. Performance of the Founders Class will differ. See page 4 for the full standardized performance.

Sector and holding weights are as of March 31, 2016.

ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with Clarkston Capital Partners, LLC.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 3

Clarkston Partners Fund
Portfolio Update

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Top Ten Holdings (as a % of Net Assets)*

The Western Union Co.
5.73%
LPL Financial Holdings, Inc.
4.52%
Legg Mason, Inc.
4.50%
Willis Towers Watson PLC
4.46%
Brown & Brown, Inc.
4.40%
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Class A
4.21%
Matthews International Corp., Class A
4.13%
Hillenbrand, Inc.
3.77%
Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.
3.66%
Federated Investors, Inc., Class B
3.63%
Top Ten Holdings
43.01%

Sector Allocation (as a % of Net Assets)*

Financial Services
33.76%
Producer Durables
18.26%
Consumer Discretionary
8.94%
Consumer Staples
4.13%
Energy
2.60%
Technology
2.03%
Materials & Processing
1.65%
Health Care
1.43%
Cash, Cash Equivalents, & Other Net Assets
27.20%
Total
100.00%

* Holdings are subject to change, and may not reflect the current or future position of the portfolio.
 

4 
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Clarkston Partners Fund
Portfolio Update

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Performance of a hypothetical $25,000 Initial Investment (at Inception* through March 31, 2016)
 
(LINE GRAPH)

The graph shown above represents historical performance of a hypothetical investment of $25,000 in the Institutional Class. Due to differing expenses, performance of the Founders Class will vary. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All returns reflect reinvested dividends, but do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

Performance (as of March 31, 2016)

 
3 Month
6 Month
Since Inception*
Clarkston Partners Fund - Institutional
3.80%
7.24%
4.02%
Clarkston Partners Fund - Founders
3.90%
7.40%
4.17%
Russell 2500TM Index TR
0.39%
3.68%
-1.52%

The performance data quoted above represents past performance. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and value of the Fund shares will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Performance may be lower or higher than performance data quoted. Fund performance current to the most recent month-end is available by calling (844) 680-6562 or by visiting www.clarkstonfunds.com.

*
Fund’s inception date is September 15, 2015.

The Russell 2500TM Index TR measures the performance of the small to mid-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe, commonly referred to as “smid” cap. The Russell 2500TM Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index. It includes approximately 2,500 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The Russell 2500TM Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for the small to mid-cap segment. The Russell 3000® Index measures the performance of the largest 3,000 U.S. companies representing approximately 98% of the investable U.S. equity market.

Frank Russell Company is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks and copyrights related to the Russell Indices.  Russell® is a trademark of Frank Russell Company.
Returns of less than 1 year are cumulative.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 5

Clarkston Partners Fund
Portfolio Update

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Indices are not actively managed and do not reflect a deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. An investor cannot invest directly in an index.

The returns shown above do not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or redemption of Fund shares.

The total annual operating expenses and total annual operating expenses after fee waivers and/or reimbursement you may pay as an investor in the Fund’s Founders Class and Institutional Class shares (as reported in the January 28, 2016 Prospectus), are 1.09% and 0.88% and 1.24% and 1.03%, respectively. The Fund’s investment adviser has contractually agreed to limit expenses through January 31, 2017.

The Fund is new and has a limited operating history.


6 
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Clarkston Partners Fund
Disclosure of Fund Expenses

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Example. As a shareholder of the Clarkston Partners Fund (the “Fund”), you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and other Fund expenses. The following examples are intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested on October 1, 2015 and held through March 31, 2016.

Actual Expenses. The first line under each class in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period October 1, 2015 – March 31, 2016” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes. The second line under each class in 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 mutual funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing Fund costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs. Therefore, the second line under each class in 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 transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
 
 
Beginning 
Account Value 
October 1, 2015
Ending 
Account Value 
March 31, 2016
Expense Ratio
Expenses Paid 
During Period 
October 1, 2015 -
March 31, 2016(a)
Founders
       
Actual
$1,000.00
$1,074.00
0.85%
$4.41
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,020.75
0.85%
$4.29
         
Institutional Class
       
Actual
$1,000.00
$1,072.40
1.00%
$5.18
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,020.00
1.00%
$5.05
 
(a)
Expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio shown above for the applicable class, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year (183), divided by 366.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 7

Clarkston Partners Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
   
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
COMMON STOCKS (72.80%)
 
Consumer Discretionary (8.94%)
 
Cable One, Inc.
   
7,000
   
$
3,059,910
 
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Class A
   
435,000
     
21,267,150
 
Matthews International Corp., Class A
   
405,000
     
20,845,350
 
Total Consumer Discretionary
           
45,172,410
 
                 
Consumer Staples (4.13%)
 
McCormick & Co., Inc.
   
120,000
     
11,937,600
 
Post Holdings, Inc.(a)
   
130,000
     
8,940,100
 
Total Consumer Staples
           
20,877,700
 
                 
Energy (2.60%)
 
NOW, Inc.(a)
   
740,000
     
13,112,800
 
Total Energy
           
13,112,800
 
                 
Financial Services (33.76%)
 
Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.
   
312,000
     
18,504,720
 
Brown & Brown, Inc.
   
620,000
     
22,196,000
 
Equifax, Inc.
   
60,000
     
6,857,400
 
Federated Investors, Inc., Class B
   
635,000
     
18,319,750
 
Legg Mason, Inc.
   
655,000
     
22,715,400
 
LPL Financial Holdings, Inc.
   
920,000
     
22,816,000
 
Markel Corp.(a)
   
8,500
     
7,578,345
 
The Western Union Co.
   
1,500,000
     
28,935,000
 
Willis Towers Watson PLC
   
190,000
     
22,545,400
 
Total Financial Services
           
170,468,015
 
                 
Health Care (1.43%)
 
Patterson Cos, Inc.
   
155,000
     
7,212,150
 
Total Health Care
           
7,212,150
 
                 
Materials & Processing (1.65%)
 
Fastenal Co.
   
170,000
     
8,330,000
 
Total Materials & Processing
           
8,330,000
 
                 
Producer Durables (18.26%)
 
Actuant Corp., Class A
   
600,000
     
14,826,000
 
CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc.
   
170,000
     
12,619,100
 
Cintas Corp.
   
80,000
     
7,184,800
 
Graco, Inc.
   
100,000
     
8,396,000
 
Hillenbrand, Inc.
   
635,000
     
19,018,250
 
IHS, Inc. Class A(a)
   
70,000
     
8,691,200
 
Landstar System, Inc.
   
210,000
     
13,568,100
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

8 
www.clarkstonfunds.com

Clarkston Partners Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
   
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Producer Durables (continued)
 
Waters Corp.(a)
   
60,000
   
$
7,915,200
 
Total Producer Durables
           
92,218,650
 
                 
Technology (2.03%)
 
Linear Technology Corp.
   
230,000
     
10,248,800
 
Total Technology
           
10,248,800
 
                 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $354,433,187)
     
367,640,525
 
                 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (72.80%) (Cost $354,433,187)
   
$
367,640,525
 
                 
Other Assets In Excess Of Liabilities (27.20%)
     
137,374,800
 
NET ASSETS (100.00%)
   
$
505,015,325
 
 
(a)
Non-income producing security.
 
Common Abbreviations:
PLC - Public Limited Company.

For Fund compliance purposes, the Fund’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indices or ratings group indices and/or as defined by Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may use a different classification system or may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease. Industries are shown as a percent of the Fund's net assets. (Unaudited)
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 9

Clarkston Partners Fund
Statement of Assets and Liabilities

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments, at value (Cost $354,433,187)
 
$
367,640,525
 
Cash & Cash Equivalents
   
127,588,246
 
Receivable for shares sold
   
23,778,354
 
Dividends receivable
   
262,900
 
Prepaid offering costs
   
49,513
 
Total Assets
   
519,319,538
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Administration and transfer agency fees payable
   
60,135
 
Payable for investments purchased
   
13,744,305
 
Payable for shares redeemed
   
127,654
 
Payable to adviser
   
221,549
 
Payable for distribution and service fees
   
67,739
 
Payable for printing
   
13,873
 
Payable for professional fees
   
37,032
 
Payable to trustees
   
10,738
 
Payable to Chief Compliance Officer
   
5,000
 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
16,188
 
Total Liabilities
   
14,304,213
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
505,015,325
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:
 
Paid-in capital (Note 5)
 
$
491,291,926
 
Accumulated net investment income
   
497,163
 
Accumulated net realized gain on investments
   
18,898
 
Net unrealized appreciation on investments
   
13,207,338
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
505,015,325
 
         
PRICING OF SHARES
       
Founders Class:
 
Net Asset Value, offering and redemption price per share
 
$
10.40
 
Net Assets
 
$
251,828,972
 
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding
   
24,222,377
 
Institutional Class:
 
Net Asset Value, offering and redemption price per share
 
$
10.39
 
Net Assets
 
$
253,186,353
 
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding
   
24,363,859
 

See Notes to Financial Statements.
10 
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Clarkston Partners Fund
Statement of Operations

For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
 
Dividends
 
$
2,252,269
 
Total Investment Income
   
2,252,269
 
         
EXPENSES:
 
Investment advisory fees (Note 6)
   
1,153,218
 
Administration fees
   
105,155
 
Shareholder service fees
       
Institutional Class
   
100,715
 
Custodian fees
   
9,724
 
Legal fees
   
36,788
 
Audit and tax fees
   
8,828
 
Transfer agent fees
   
51,596
 
Trustees fees and expenses
   
22,395
 
Registration and filing fees
   
7,675
 
Printing fees
   
11,812
 
Chief Compliance Officer fees
   
15,000
 
Insurance expense
   
3,883
 
Offering costs
   
34,801
 
Other expenses
   
4,520
 
Total Expenses
   
1,566,110
 
Less fees waived/reimbursed by investment adviser
       
Founders Class (Note 6)
   
(135,872
)
Institutional Class (Note 6)
   
(104,229
)
Total fees waived/reimbursed by investment adviser
   
(240,101
)
Net Expenses
   
1,326,009
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
   
926,260
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN ON INVESTMENTS:
       
Net realized gain on:
       
Investments
   
18,898
 
Net realized gain
   
18,898
 
         
Change in unrealized appreciation on:
       
Investments
   
17,077,111
 
Net change
   
17,077,111
 
         
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN ON INVESTMENTS
   
17,096,009
 
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
18,022,269
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 11
 

Clarkston Partners Fund
Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 
   
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2015 (a)
 
OPERATIONS:
 
Net investment income
 
$
926,260
   
$
2,530
 
Net realized gain on investments
   
18,898
     
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments
   
17,077,111
     
(3,869,773
)
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations
   
18,022,269
     
(3,867,243
)
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
From net investment income:
               
Founders Class
   
(243,684
)
   
 
Institutional Class
   
(204,595
)
   
 
Total distributions
   
(448,279
)
   
 
                 
BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS (Note 5):
 
Founders
 
Shares sold
   
117,468,666
     
130,613,687
 
Dividends reinvested
   
243,684
     
 
Shares redeemed
   
(4,312,170
)
   
(466,361
)
Net increase from beneficial share transactions
   
113,400,180
     
130,147,326
 
Institutional Class
 
Shares sold
   
258,723,797
     
25,010
 
Dividends reinvested
   
199,826
     
 
Shares redeemed
   
(11,187,561
)
   
 
Net increase from beneficial share transactions
   
247,736,062
     
25,010
 
Net increase in net assets
   
378,710,232
     
126,305,093
 
                 
NET ASSETS:
 
Beginning of period
   
126,305,093
     
 
End of period (including accumulated net investment income of $497,163 and $19,182)
 
$
505,015,325
   
$
126,305,093
 
 
(a) Commenced operations on September 16, 2015.
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

12 
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Clarkston Partners Fund – Founders Class
Financial Highlights

For a Share Outstanding Throughout the periods Presented
 
 
 
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2015(a)
 
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
9.70
   
$
10.00
 
 
               
INCOME/(LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS:
               
Net investment income(b)
   
0.04
     
0.00
(c) 
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments
   
0.68
     
(0.30
)
Total from investment operations
   
0.72
     
(0.30
)
 
               
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
               
From net investment income
   
(0.02
)
   
 
Total Distributions
   
(0.02
)
   
 
NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSET VALUE
   
0.70
     
(0.30
)
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD
 
$
10.40
   
$
9.70
 
 
               
TOTAL RETURN(d)
   
7.40
%
   
(3.00
%)
 
               
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
               
Net assets, end of period (in 000s)
 
$
251,829
   
$
126,281
 
 
               
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
               
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
1.03
%(e)
   
1.81
%(e)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
0.85
%(e)
   
0.85
%(e)
Net investment income including reimbursement/waiver
   
0.72
%(e)
   
0.05
%(e)
 
               
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE(f)
   
0
%(g)
   
0
%
 
(a) Commenced operations on September 16, 2015.
(b) Per share amounts are based upon average shares outstanding.
(c) Less than $0.005 per share.
(d) Total returns are for the period indicated and have not been annualized. Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived during the period. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(e) Annualized.
(f) Portfolio turnover rate for periods less than one full year have not been annualized.
(g) Less than 0.5%.
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
13


Clarkston Partners Fund – Institutional Class
Financial Highlights

For a Share Outstanding Throughout the periods Presented
 
 
 
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2015(a)
 
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
9.70
   
$
10.00
 
 
               
INCOME/(LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS:
               
Net investment income/(loss)(b)
   
0.03
     
(0.00
)(c)
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments
   
0.67
     
(0.30
)
Total from investment operations
   
0.70
     
(0.30
)
 
               
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
               
From net investment income
   
(0.01
)
   
 
Total Distributions
   
(0.01
)
   
 
NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSET VALUE
   
0.69
     
(0.30
)
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD
 
$
10.39
   
$
9.70
 
 
               
TOTAL RETURN(d)
   
7.24
%
   
(3.00
%)
 
               
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
               
Net assets, end of period (in 000s)
 
$
253,186
   
$
24
 
 
               
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
               
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
1.16
%(e)
   
1.96
%(e)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
1.00
%(e)
   
1.00
%(e)
Net investment income/(loss) including reimbursement/waiver
   
0.55
%(e)
   
(0.10%
)(e)
 
               
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE(f)
   
0
%(g)
   
0
%
 
(a) Commenced operations on September 16, 2015.
(b) Per share amounts are based upon average shares outstanding.
(c) Less than $(0.005) per share.
(d) Total returns are for the period indicated and have not been annualized. Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived during the period. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(e) Annualized.
(f) Portfolio turnover rate for periods less than one full year have not been annualized.
(g) Less than 0.5%.

See Notes to Financial Statements.
14
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Clarkston Partners Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
1. ORGANIZATION

ALPS Series Trust (the “Trust”), a Delaware statutory trust, is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”).  As of March 31, 2016, the Trust had 8 registered funds.  This semi-annual report describes the Clarkston Partners Fund (the “Fund”). The Fund’s investment objective is to achieve long-term capital appreciation. The Fund currently offers Founders Class shares and Institutional Class shares. Each share class has identical rights to earnings, assets and voting privileges, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. The Board of Trustees (the “Board”) may establish additional funds and classes of shares at any time in the future without shareholder approval.

As a newly organized entity, the Fund has limited operating history. The Fund did not have any operations before September 16, 2015, other than those relating to the sale and issuance of the Fund’s initial Institutional Class shares and Founders Class shares to ALPS Fund Services, Inc. (“ALPS”), the Fund’s Administrator and Transfer Agent. ALPS is an affiliate of ALPS Distributors, Inc., the Fund’s principal underwriter.

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The accompanying financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for investment companies (“U.S. GAAP”).  The Fund is considered an investment company for financial reporting purposes.  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in preparation of its financial statements.

Investment Valuation: The Fund generally values its securities based on market prices determined at the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, on each day the NYSE is open for trading.

Securities traded on a registered U.S. securities exchange (including exchange-traded derivatives other than futures and futures options) are valued based on the last sale price of the security reported on the principal exchange on which it is traded, prior to the time when the Fund’s assets are valued. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, or if such closing prices are not otherwise available, the securities are valued at the mean of the most recent bid and ask prices on such day.

Redeemable securities issued by open-end registered investment companies are valued at the investment company’s applicable net asset value, with the exception of exchange-traded open-end investment companies, which are priced as equity securities.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
15

Clarkston Partners Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

When such prices or quotations are not available, or when the Fair Value Committee appointed by the Board believes that they are unreliable, securities may be priced using fair value procedures approved by the Board.

Fair Value Measurements: The Fund discloses the classification of its fair value measurements following a three-tier hierarchy based on the inputs used to measure fair value. Inputs refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity. Unobservable inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on the best information available.

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments as of the end of the reporting period. When inputs used fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the hierarchy within which the fair value measurement falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The designated input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with these investments. These inputs are categorized in the following hierarchy under applicable financial accounting standards:

Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical investments, unrestricted assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access at the measurement date;

Level 2 – Quoted prices which are not active, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable (either directly or indirectly) for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; and

Level 3 – Significant unobservable prices or inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments) where there is little or no market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date.
 

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Clarkston Partners Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of March 31, 2016:
 
Investments in Securities at Value
 
Level 1 - Quoted Prices
   
Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs
   
Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs
   
Total
 
Common Stocks
                       
Consumer Discretionary
 
$
45,172,410
   
$
   
$
   
$
45,172,410
 
Consumer Staples
   
20,877,700
     
     
     
20,877,700
 
Energy
   
13,112,800
     
     
     
13,112,800
 
Financial Services
   
170,468,015
     
     
     
170,468,015
 
Health Care
   
7,212,150
     
     
     
7,212,150
 
Materials & Processing
   
8,330,000
     
     
     
8,330,000
 
Producer Durables
   
92,218,650
     
     
     
92,218,650
 
Technology
   
10,248,800
     
     
     
10,248,800
 
Total
 
$
367,640,525
   
$
   
$
   
$
367,640,525
 
 
The Fund recognizes transfers between levels as of the end of the period. For the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 securities. There were no Level 3 securities held during the period.

Offering Costs: The Fund incurred offering costs during the period ended March 31, 2016. These offering costs, including fees for printing initial prospectuses, legal and registration fees, are being amortized over the first twelve months from the inception date of the Fund. Amounts amortized during the six-month period ended March 31, 2016 are shown on the Fund’s Statement of Operations and amounts that remain to be amortized are shown on the Fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Trust Expenses: Some expenses of the Trust can be directly attributed to the Fund. Expenses that cannot be directly attributed to the Fund are apportioned among all funds in the Trust based on average net assets of each fund.

Fund Expenses: Some expenses can be directly attributed to the Fund and are apportioned among the classes based on average net assets of each class.

Class Expenses: Expenses that are specific to a class of shares are charged directly to that share class. Fees provided under the shareholder service plan for a particular class of the Fund are charged to the operations of such class.

Federal Income Taxes: The Fund complies with the requirements under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies and intends to distribute substantially all of its net taxable income and net capital gains, if any, each year so that it will not be subject to excise tax on undistributed income and gains. The Fund is not subject to income taxes to the extent such distributions are made.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
17


Clarkston Partners Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
As of and during the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have a liability for any unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying financial statements. The Fund files U.S. federal, state and local income tax returns as required.  The Fund’s tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant tax authorities until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years after the filing of the tax return for federal purposes and four years for most state returns.  If applicable, the Fund’s administrator has analyzed the Fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state income tax returns for all open tax years and has concluded that as of March 31, 2016, no provision for income tax is required in the Fund’s financial statements related to these tax positions.

Investment Transactions and Investment Income: Investment transactions are accounted for on the date the investments are purchased or sold (trade date basis). Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are reported on an identified cost basis. Interest income, which includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is accrued and recorded as earned. Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date, or for certain foreign securities, as soon as information is available to the Fund. All of the realized and unrealized gains and losses and net investment income are allocated daily to each class in proportion to its average daily net assets.

Distributions to Shareholders: The Fund normally pays dividends, if any, and distributes capital gains, if any, on an annual basis.  Income dividend distributions are derived from interest and other income the Fund receives from its investments, including short-term capital gains. Long-term capital gain distributions are derived from gains realized when the Fund sells a security it has owned for more than one year. The Fund may make additional distributions and dividends at other times if its portfolio manager or managers believe doing so may be necessary for the Fund to avoid or reduce taxes. Net investment income/(loss) and net realized gain/(loss) may differ for financial statement and tax purposes.

3. TAX BASIS INFORMATION

Tax Basis of Distributions to Shareholders: The character of distributions made during the period from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from its ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes.  Also, due to the timing of dividend distributions, the fiscal year in which amounts are distributed may differ from the fiscal year in which the income or realized gain was recorded by the Fund. The amounts and characteristics of tax basis distributions and composition of distributable earnings/(accumulated losses) are finalized at fiscal year-end. Accordingly, tax basis balances have not been determined as of the date of the semi-annual.

There were no distributions paid by the Fund for the fiscal period ended September 30, 2015.

Unrealized Appreciation and Depreciation on Investments:  As of March 31, 2016, the aggregate cost of investments, gross unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) and net unrealized depreciation for Federal tax purposes were as follows:
 
Gross unrealized appreciation (excess of value over tax cost)
 
$
24,491,874
 
Gross unrealized depreciation (excess of tax cost over value)
   
(11,284,536
)
Net unrealized appreciation
 
$
13,207,338
 
Cost of investments for income tax purposes
 
$
354,433,187
 
 

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Clarkston Partners Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
4. SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS

Purchases and sales of securities, excluding short‐term securities, during the period ended March 31, 2016 were as follows:
 
 
 
Purchases of Securities
   
Proceeds from Sales of Securities
 
 
 
$
260,302,823
   
$
1,110,360
 
 
5. BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

The capitalization of the Trust consists of an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest with no par value per share. Holders of the shares of the Fund have one vote for each share held and a proportionate fraction of a vote for each fractional share. All shares issued and outstanding are fully paid and are transferable and redeemable at the option of the shareholder. Shares have no pre-emptive rights. Neither the Fund nor any of its creditors has the right to require shareholders to pay any additional amounts solely because the shareholder owns the shares.

Transactions in common shares were as follows:
 
 
 
For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2015(a)
 
Founders
           
Shares sold
   
11,620,760
     
13,062,845
 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions to shareholders
   
24,396
     
 
Shares redeemed
   
(438,529
)
   
(47,095
)
Net increase in shares outstanding
   
11,206,627
     
13,015,751
 
Institutional Class
               
Shares sold
   
25,495,468
     
2,501
 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions to shareholders
   
19,999
     
 
Shares redeemed
   
(1,154,109
)
   
 
Net increase in shares outstanding
   
24,361,358
     
2,501
 
 
(a) Commenced operations on September 16, 2015.
 
Control is defined by the 1940 Act as the beneficial ownership, either directly or through one or more controlled companies, of more than 25% of the voting securities of a company. Approximately 94% of the Fund’s shares outstanding are held within two omnibus accounts. Share transaction activities of these shareholders could have a material impact on the Fund.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
19


Clarkston Partners Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
6. MANAGEMENT AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Investment Advisory: Clarkston Capital Partners, LLC (“Clarkston” or the “Adviser”), subject to the authority of the Board, is responsible for the overall management and administration of the Fund’s business affairs. The Adviser manages the investments of the Fund in accordance with the Fund’s investment objective, policies and limitations and investment guidelines established jointly by the Adviser and the Board.

Pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement (the “Advisory Agreement”) with the Adviser, the Fund pays the Adviser an annual management fee of 0.80% based on the Fund’s average daily net assets. The management fee is paid on a monthly basis. The initial term of the Advisory Agreement is two years. The Board may extend the Advisory Agreement for additional one-year terms. The Board and shareholders of the Fund may terminate the Advisory Agreement upon 30 days’ written notice. The Adviser may terminate the Advisory Agreement upon 60 days’ notice.

Pursuant to a fee waiver letter agreement (the “Fee Waiver Agreement”), the Adviser has contractually agreed to limit the amount of the Fund’s Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses, exclusive of shareholder servicing fees, brokerage expenses, interest expenses, acquired fund fees and expenses, taxes and extraordinary expenses, to an annual rate of 0.85% of the Fund’s average daily net assets for each of the Founders Class shares and the Institutional Class shares.  The Fee Waiver Agreement is in effect through January 31, 2017.  The Adviser will be permitted to recover, on a class-by-class basis, expenses it has borne through the Fee Waiver Agreement to the extent that the Fund’s expenses in later periods fall below the annual rates set forth in the Fee Waiver Agreement.  The Fund will not be obligated to pay any such deferred fees and expenses more than three years after the end of the fiscal year in which the fees and expense were deferred. The Adviser may not discontinue this waiver without the approval of the Trust's Board.

For the six-month period ended March 31, 2016, the fee waivers and/or reimbursements were $135,872 and $104,229 for the Founders Class and Institutional Class, respectively.

As of September 30, 2015, the balance of recoupable expenses was $50,396 and $10 for the Founders Class and Institutional Class, respectively, and will expire in 2018.

Administrator: ALPS Fund Services, Inc. (“ALPS”) (an affiliate of ALPS Distributors, Inc.) serves as administrator to the Fund.  The Fund has agreed to pay expenses incurred in connection with its administrative activities. Pursuant to the Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement with the Trust, ALPS will provide operational services to the Fund including, but not limited to, fund accounting and fund administration and generally assist in the Fund’s operations. The Fund’s administration fee is accrued on a daily basis and paid monthly. The officers of the Trust are employees of ALPS.  Administration fees paid by the Fund for the period ended March 31, 2016 are disclosed in the Statement of Operations.

ALPS is reimbursed by the Fund for certain out of pocket expenses.

Transfer Agent: ALPS serves as transfer agent for the Fund under a Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund plus fees for open and closed accounts and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 

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Clarkston Partners Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Compliance Services: ALPS provides services as the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer to monitor and test the policies and procedures of the Fund in conjunction with requirements under Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act pursuant to a Chief Compliance Officer Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.

Distribution: ALPS Distributors, Inc. (the “Distributor”) (an affiliate of ALPS) acts as the principal underwriter of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with the Trust.  Shares of the Fund are offered on a continuous basis through the Distributor, as agent of the Fund.  The Distributor is not obligated to sell any particular amount of shares and is not entitled to any compensation for its services as the Fund’s principal underwriter pursuant to the Distribution Agreement.

The Fund has adopted a shareholder services plan (“Shareholder Services Plan”) for its Institutional Class. Under the Shareholder Services Plan, the Fund is authorized to pay banks and their affiliates and other institutions, including broker-dealers and Fund affiliates (“Participating Organizations”), an aggregate fee in an amount not to exceed on an annual basis 0.15% of the average daily net asset value of the Institutional Class shares attributable to or held in the name of a Participating Organization for its clients as compensation for providing shareholder service activities, which do not include distribution services, pursuant to an agreement with a Participating Organization. Shareholder Services plan fees are included with other expenses on the Statement of Operations.

7. TRUSTEES

As of March 31, 2016, there were four Trustees, three of whom are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”). The Independent Trustees receive a quarterly retainer of $4,000, plus $2,000 for each regular Board or Committee meeting attended, $2,000 for each special telephonic Board or Committee meeting attended and $2,000 for each special in-person Board meeting attended. The Independent Trustees are also reimbursed for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at meetings and for meeting-related expenses. Officers of the Trust and Trustees who are interested persons of the Trust receive no salary or fees from the Trust.

8. INDEMNIFICATIONS

Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts with service providers that may contain general indemnification clauses which may permit indemnification to the extent permissible under applicable law. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
21


Clarkston Partners Fund
Additional Information

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
1. PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND VOTING RECORD

A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge, upon request, (i) by calling the Fund (toll‐free) at 1‐844-680-6562 or (ii) on the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12‐month period ended June 30 is available (i) without charge, upon request, by calling the Fund (toll‐free) at 1‐844-680-6562 or (ii) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

2. PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS

The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N‐Q. The Fund’s Forms N‐Q are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. The Fund’s Forms N‐Q may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C., and information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1‐800‐SEC‐0330.
 

22
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Intentionally Left Blank
 
 
 

 

 
 
 
 
Clarkston Funds
 
This material must be preceded or accompanied by a prospectus. The Clarkston Funds are distributed by ALPS Distributors, Inc.
 

 

Table of Contents
 
Shareholder Letter
1
Portfolio Update
4
Disclosure of Fund Expenses
7
Portfolio of Investments
8
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
15
Statement of Operations
16
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
17
Statement of Cash Flows
18
Financial Highlights
20
Notes to Financial Statements
24
Additional Information
32
 

1-855-254-6467  |  www.cogniosfunds.com
 

Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Shareholder Letter
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Dear Shareholder,
 
Thank you for investing in the Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund (the “Fund”) and for taking the time to review our Semi-Annual Report for the six months ended March 31, 2016. We value this opportunity to offer insight into the Fund’s investment strategy and to offer commentary on the Fund’s performance and overall market conditions.
 
The Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund employs a beta-adjusted market neutral investment strategy that seeks to provide investors with returns that are non-correlated to, or independent of, the returns of the global equity and fixed income markets. By attempting to hedge out all of the market Beta, the Fund’s returns over time should be essentially “pure Alpha” (i.e., Alpha is the excess return of a portfolio after considering its Beta exposure.) Additionally, by hedging out the general market movements in this Beta-adjusted market neutral fashion, we believe that the total returns of the Fund will be independent of those broad “systemic” risk factors and macro events that move the entire stock market either positively or negatively over time.
 
Also, as you have already been notified, effective April 1, 2015, the annual total operating expense ratio (after waivers) of the Fund was reduced as we believe this is in the best interest of the Fund’s shareholders and aligns with Cognios’ long-term value proposition in helping to ensure that all investors have greater access to the strategies needed to diversify their portfolios.
 
Below you will find performance updates for the Fund.
 
During the six months ended March 31, 2016, the total return for the Institutional Class Shares (COGIX) was 7.55% and the total return for the Investor Class Shares (COGMX) was 7.41%. Over the same period, the HFRX Equity Market Neutral Index declined -1.74%, while the S&P 500 Index gained 8.49% on a total return basis. Like 2015, 2016 has thus far proven to be a difficult and volatile year in the equity market. Calendar year-to-date March 31, 2016, COGIX shares gained 6.75% and COGMX shares gained 6.60% while the HFRX Equity Market Neutral Index declined -2.59% and the S&P 500 gained only 1.35%.
 
Regarding market performance, we still believe that valuations are elevated relative to historical norms. Worse yet, earnings per share for the S&P 500 have been declining. According to S&P Capital IQ, earnings per share for the S&P 500 declined in each calendar quarter in 2015 when compared to the corresponding quarter in 2014. S&P Capital IQ also expects this decline to continue in calendar Q1 of 2016 based on earnings estimates as of April 11, 2016. With earnings per share declining, the already elevated price-to-earnings ratio for the S&P 500 Index will expand even if the Index is unchanged. Because of elevated valuations, declining earnings, increased volatility and the potential for rising interest rates, an allocation to market neutral equity strategies may make sense for investors looking to further diversify their portfolios.
 
Over the course of the six months ended March 31, 2016, the Fund held eighty-two long positions and one hundred sixty-five short positions. Sixty-one of the eighty-two long positions were profitable and forty-five of the one hundred sixty-five short positions were profitable for the period. Total gains generated by the long positions were $6,666,548 offset by $3,751,785 of losses generated by the short positions during the period. The long positions generated a 20.7% gain on average equity capital while the short positions generated losses of 11.7% on average equity capital. The table below displays the top five most profitable long and short positions for the six months ended March 31, 2016.
 

Semi‐Annual Report | March 31, 2016
1

Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Shareholder Letter
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Ticker
Longs Company
 
Profits
 
Ticker
Shorts Company
 
Profits
 
VRSN
Verisign, Inc.
 
$
504,976
 
ENDP
Endo International, PLC
 
$
261,494
 
PM
Philip Morris International
 
$
467,595
 
WMB
Williams Companies, Inc.
 
$
178,840
 
GIS
General Mills, Inc.
 
$
411,018
 
REGN
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
 
$
87,866
 
MMM
3M Company
 
$
407,463
 
BHI
Baker Hughes, Inc.
 
$
54,894
 
CPB
Campbell Soup Company
 
$
370,912
 
CELG
Celgene Corp.
 
$
54,158
 
 
The performance data is obviously important; but since the portfolio is hedged and designed to be market neutral, the independence of the performance versus the S&P 500 Index is also very important. Beta, Alpha, Correlation and R Squared are statistics that are commonly used to measure this independence. We track these measures on a monthly basis (39 data points) and the data is presented in the tables below:
 
 
Beta to the S&P 500
Annualized Alpha
to the S&P 500
COGIX
0.10
6.14%
COGMX
0.10
5.85%
 
 
Correlation of
Returns to the
S&P 500 Index
R Squared of
Returns to the
S&P 500 Index1
COGIX
15.4%
2.3%
COGMX
15.7%
2.4%
 
As the tables above indicates, Beta, Correlation and R Squared are all low, meaning that the performance of the Fund is statistically independent of the performance of the S&P 500 Index. Meanwhile, the Alpha of the Fund is positive and improved by 3.24% for COGIX and COGMX shares compared to September 30, 2015, the date of our last shareholder letter. We hope that this statistic continues to move higher in the future with improved performance that continues to be independent of the S&P 500 Index.
 
We at Cognios look forward to future opportunities to connect with our shareholders. We strive to continuously add value to your investment experience by providing access to fund information, portfolio updates and straightforward commentary.
 
If you have any questions regarding the Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund, please contact your account manager or financial adviser, or call one of our shareholder associates at 855-254-6467. We also invite you to visit Cognios' website at www.cognios.com to learn more about our firm, our team and our values.
 

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Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Shareholder Letter
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

We thank you for investing with Cognios and for the trust you have placed in us.
 
Sincerely,

-s- Jonathan Angrist -s- Brian Machtley -s- Francisco Bido
     
Jonathan Angrist
Brian Machtley
Francisco Bido

Portfolio Managers
Cognios Capital, LLC

1 R Squared is the coefficient of determination and indicates how well data points fit in a model. In the example in the above table, 2.3% of the monthly movement in share price of COGIX can be explained by the movement of the S&P 500 Index.
 
Beta is a measure of the volatility, or systematic risk, of a security or a portfolio in comparison to the market as a whole.

Correlation is a statistical measure of how two securities move in relation to each other.

Earnings per share (EPS) is the portion of a company's profit allocated to each outstanding share of common stock.

Price-to-earnings ratio (P/E Ratio) is the ratio for valuing a company that measures its current share price relative to its per-share earnings

The views and information discussed in this commentary are as of the date of publication, are subject to change, and may not reflect the writer’s current views. The views expressed are those of the Fund’s adviser only, and represent an assessment of market conditions at a specific point in time, are opinions only and should not be relied upon as investment advice regarding a particular investment or markets in general. Such information does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell specific securities or investment vehicles. It should not be assumed that any investment will be profitable or will equal the performance of the fund(s) or any securities or any sectors mentioned in this letter. The subject matter contained in this letter has been derived from several sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of compilation. Neither the Fund nor the Adviser accepts any liability for losses either direct or consequential caused by the use of this information.

Not FDIC Insured – No Bank Guarantee – May Lose Value

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with Cognios Capital, LLC.
 

Semi‐Annual Report | March 31, 2016
3


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Portfolio Update
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Performance (as of March 31, 2016)
 
 
3 Month
6 Month
1 Year
3 Year
Since Inception*
Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund - Investor
6.60%
7.41%
11.31%
8.65%
7.13%
Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund - Institutional
6.75%
7.55%
11.55%
8.90%
7.39%
S&P 500® Total Return Index(a)
1.35%
8.49%
1.78%
11.82%
14.37%
HFRX Equity Market Neutral Index(b)
-2.59%
-1.74%
1.02%
2.50%
2.48%
 
The performance data quoted above represents past performance. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and value of the Fund shares will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Performance may be lower or higher than performance data quoted. Fund performance current to the most recent month-end is available by calling 855.254.6467 or by visiting www.cogniosfunds.com.
 
* Fund’s inception date is December 31, 2012.
 
(a) The S&P 500® Total Return Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks chosen for the market size, liquidity and industry group representation. It is a market-value weighted index.
 
(b) The HFRX Equity Market Neutral Index is a common benchmark for long/ short market neutral hedge funds (funds traditionally only available to high net-worth accredited and institutional investors that are also "qualified clients" as defined by the SEC).
 
Returns of less than 1 year are cumulative.
 
Indices are not actively managed and do not reflect deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. An investor cannot invest directly into an index.
 
The returns shown above do not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or redemption of Fund shares.
 
The total annual operating expenses and total annual operating expenses after fee waivers and/or reimbursement you may pay as an investor in the Fund's Investor Class and Institutional Class shares (as reported in the January 28, 2016 Prospectus) are 5.92% and 3.97% and 5.68% and 3.72% respectively. Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses excluding Dividend Expense (dividends paid on borrowed securities), Borrowing Costs and Brokerage Expenses on Securities Sold Short are: Investor Class 3.90 % Institutional Class 3.66%, while Total Annual Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver/Expense Reimbursement excluding Dividend Expenses, Borrowing Costs and Brokerage Expenses on securities sold short are: Investor Class 1.95% Institutional Class 1.70%. The Fund’s investment adviser has contractually agreed to limit expenses through January 31, 2017.
 

4
www.cogniosfunds.com


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Portfolio Update
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Performance of $10,000 Initial Investment (as of March 31, 2016)

(LINE GRAPH)

The graph shown above represents historical performance of a hypothetical investment of $10,000 in the Fund since inception. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All returns reflect reinvested dividends, but do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
 
Sector Allocation (as a % of Net Assets)*
 
Basic Materials - Long
0.59%
Basic Materials (Short)
-6.23%
Communications - Long
10.51%
Communications (Short)
-7.40%
Consumer Cyclical - Long
7.98%
Consumer Cyclical (Short)
-14.16%
Consumer Non-cyclical - Long
41.61%
Consumer Non-cyclical (Short)
-7.01%
Energy - Long
4.69%
Energy (Short)
-19.51%
Financials - Long
2.61%
Financials (Short)
-11.93%
Industrials - Long
23.16%
Industrials (Short)
-6.96%
Technology - Long
22.09%
Technology (Short)
-8.97%
Utilities - Long
1.25%
Cash, Cash Equivalents, & Other Net Assets
67.68%
TOTAL
100.00%
 
* Holdings are subject to change, and may not reflect the current or future position of the portfolio. Table presents indicative values only.
 

Semi‐Annual Report | March 31, 2016
5


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Portfolio Update
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Top 10 Long Positions (as a % of Net Assets)*
 
Security
Ticker
Weight
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
GILD
5.75%
DaVita HealthCare Partners, Inc.
DVA
5.45%
F5 Networks, Inc.
FFIV
5.38%
United Parcel Service, Inc. - Class B
UPS
5.36%
General Mills, Inc.
GIS
5.33%
Philip Morris International, Inc.
PM
5.33%
Dun & Bradstreet Corp.
DNB
5.23%
3M Co.
MMM
5.20%
VeriSign, Inc.
VRSN
5.12%
CA, Inc.
CA
5.12%
 
* Holdings are subject to change, and may not reflect the current or future position of the portfolio. Table presents indicative values only.
 

6
www.cogniosfunds.com


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Disclosure of Fund Expenses
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Examples. As a shareholder of the Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund (the “Fund”), you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, (2) ongoing costs, including management fees, distribution and service (12b-1) fees and other Fund expenses. The following examples are intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested on October 1, 2015 and held through March 31, 2016.
 
Actual Expenses. The first line under each class in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period October 1, 2015 – March 31, 2016” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes. The second line under each class in 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 mutual funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
 
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing Fund costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as redemption fees. Therefore, the second line under each class in 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 transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
 
 
Beginning 
Account Value 
October 1, 2015
Ending 
Account Value 
March 31, 2016
Expense Ratio(a)
Expenses Paid 
During Period 
October 1, 2015 -
March 31, 2016(b)
Investor Class
 
 
 
 
Actual
$1,000.00
$1,074.10
4.13%
$21.42
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,004.35
4.13%
$20.70
         
Institutional Class
       
Actual
$1,000.00
$1,075.50
3.88%
$20.13
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,005.60
3.88%
$19.45
 
(a) Annualized, based on the Fund's most recent fiscal half-year expenses.  Expense ratio excluding interest expense and dividends paid on borrowed securities is 1.95% and 1.70% for Investor Class and Institutional Class, respectively.
(b) Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year (183), divided by 366.
 

Semi‐Annual Report | March 31, 2016
7


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Portfolio of Investments
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

   
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
COMMON STOCKS (114.49%)
 
Basic Materials (0.59%)
 
LyondellBasell Industries NV - Class A(a)
   
4,958
   
$
424,306
 
Total Basic Materials
           
424,306
 
 
               
Communications (10.51%)
 
F5 Networks, Inc.(a)(b)
   
36,615
     
3,875,698
 
VeriSign, Inc.(a)(b)
   
41,675
     
3,689,904
 
Total Communications
           
7,565,602
 
 
               
Consumer Cyclical (7.98%)
 
American Airlines Group, Inc.(a)
   
9,501
     
389,636
 
Autozone, Inc.(a)(b)
   
2,276
     
1,813,266
 
Delta Air Lines, Inc.(a)
   
8,067
     
392,701
 
GameStop Corp. - Class A(a)
   
12,839
     
407,381
 
McDonald's Corp.(a)
   
15,076
     
1,894,752
 
Nordstrom, Inc.(a)
   
7,689
     
439,888
 
United Continental Holdings, Inc.(a)(b)
   
6,802
     
407,168
 
Total Consumer Cyclical
           
5,744,792
 
 
               
Consumer Non-cyclical (41.61%)
 
Altria Group, Inc.(a)
   
28,754
     
1,801,726
 
AmerisourceBergen Corp.(a)
   
4,556
     
394,322
 
Campbell Soup Co.(a)
   
29,036
     
1,852,207
 
Cintas Corp.(a)
   
20,873
     
1,874,604
 
Danaher Corp.(a)
   
4,271
     
405,147
 
DaVita HealthCare Partners, Inc.(a)(b)
   
53,438
     
3,921,280
 
Express Scripts Holding Co.(a)(b)
   
50,828
     
3,491,375
 
General Mills, Inc.(a)
   
60,583
     
3,837,933
 
Gilead Sciences, Inc.(a)
   
45,032
     
4,136,640
 
Kellogg Co.(a)
   
24,017
     
1,838,501
 
Philip Morris International, Inc.(a)
   
39,102
     
3,836,297
 
Robert Half International, Inc.(a)
   
44,672
     
2,080,822
 
United Rentals, Inc.(a)(b)
   
7,844
     
487,818
 
Total Consumer Non-cyclical
           
29,958,672
 
 
               
Energy (4.69%)
 
Devon Energy Corp.(a)
   
21,098
     
578,929
 
Ensco PLC - Class A(a)
   
49,033
     
508,472
 
Helmerich & Payne, Inc.(a)
   
7,410
     
435,115
 
Southwestern Energy Co.(a)(b)
   
71,028
     
573,196
 
Tesoro Corp.(a)
   
4,977
     
428,072
 
Transocean, Ltd.(a)
   
46,608
     
425,997
 

See Notes to Financial Statements.
8
www.cogniosfunds.com


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Portfolio of Investments
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
   
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Energy (continued)
 
Valero Energy Corp.(a)
   
6,643
   
$
426,082
 
Total Energy
           
3,375,863
 
 
               
Financials (2.61%)
 
Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.(a)
   
30,905
     
1,878,715
 
Total Financials
           
1,878,715
 
 
               
Industrials (23.16%)
 
3M Co.(a)
   
22,461
     
3,742,676
 
Ametek, Inc.(a)
   
37,739
     
1,886,195
 
CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc.(a)
   
25,273
     
1,876,015
 
Harris Corp.(a)
   
45,174
     
3,517,248
 
L-3 Communications Holdings, Inc.(a)
   
15,150
     
1,795,275
 
United Parcel Service, Inc. - Class B(a)
   
36,623
     
3,862,628
 
Total Industrials
           
16,680,037
 
 
               
Technology (22.09%)
 
Apple, Inc.(a)
   
18,067
     
1,969,122
 
CA, Inc.(a)
   
119,707
     
3,685,778
 
Dun & Bradstreet Corp.(a)
   
36,560
     
3,768,605
 
EMC Corp.(a)
   
68,109
     
1,815,105
 
Fiserv, Inc.(a)(b)
   
18,246
     
1,871,675
 
HP, Inc.(a)
   
36,868
     
454,214
 
Micron Technology, Inc.(a)(b)
   
36,899
     
386,333
 
Oracle Corp.(a)
   
47,741
     
1,953,084
 
Total Technology
           
15,903,916
 
 
               
Utilities (1.25%)
 
AES Corp.(a)
   
39,808
     
469,735
 
NiSource, Inc.(a)
   
18,372
     
432,844
 
Total Utilities
           
902,579
 
 
               
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $78,021,446)
     
82,434,482
 

See Notes to Financial Statements.
Semi‐Annual Report | March 31, 2016
9


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Portfolio of Investments
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
   
7-Day Yield
   
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (2.43%)
 
Money Market Fund (2.43%)
 
BlackRock Liquidity Treasury Fund
   
0.02000
%
   
1,749,236
   
$
1,749,236
 
                         
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost $1,749,236)
     
1,749,236
 
                         
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (116.92%)
(Cost $79,770,682)
   
$
84,183,718
 
                         
SECURITIES SOLD SHORT (-82.17%)
         
(Proceeds $56,800,162)
   
$
(59,166,263
)
                         
Other Assets In Excess Of Liabilities (65.25%)
     
46,985,937
(c) 
NET ASSETS (100.00%)
   
$
72,003,392
 
  
 
 
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
SCHEDULE OF SECURITIES SOLD SHORT
           
COMMON STOCKS (-82.17%)
 
Basic Materials (-6.23%)
 
Alcoa, Inc.
   
(92,542
)
 
$
(886,552
)
EI du Pont de Nemours & Co.
   
(43,046
)
   
(2,725,673
)
FMC Corp.
   
(6,880
)
   
(277,746
)
Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.
   
(57,733
)
   
(596,959
)
Total Basic Materials
           
(4,486,930
)
 
               
Communications (-7.40%)
 
Level 3 Communications, Inc.
   
(9,144
)
   
(483,260
)
NetFlix, Inc.
   
(13,564
)
   
(1,386,648
)
News Corp. - Class A
   
(24,338
)
   
(310,796
)
Priceline Group, Inc.
   
(1,079
)
   
(1,390,788
)
TripAdvisor, Inc.
   
(4,279
)
   
(284,554
)
Yahoo!, Inc.
   
(39,917
)
   
(1,469,345
)
Total Communications
           
(5,325,391
)
 
               
Consumer Cyclical (-14.16%)
 
CarMax, Inc.
   
(8,871
)
   
(453,308
)
General Motors Co.
   
(44,148
)
   
(1,387,572
)
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.
   
(11,937
)
   
(393,682
)

See Notes to Financial Statements.
10
www.cogniosfunds.com


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Portfolio of Investments
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

 
 
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Consumer Cyclical (continued)
 
Hanesbrands, Inc.
   
(9,942
)
 
$
(281,756
)
Harman International Industries, Inc.
   
(3,574
)
   
(318,229
)
Hasbro, Inc.
   
(3,610
)
   
(289,161
)
Johnson Controls, Inc.
   
(45,213
)
   
(1,761,951
)
Lennar Corp. - Class A
   
(8,032
)
   
(388,427
)
Newell Rubbermaid, Inc.
   
(7,109
)
   
(314,858
)
PulteGroup, Inc.
   
(15,772
)
   
(295,094
)
Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.
   
(9,817
)
   
(806,466
)
Signet Jewelers, Ltd.
   
(6,064
)
   
(752,118
)
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
   
(17,379
)
   
(1,464,007
)
Whirlpool Corp.
   
(5,468
)
   
(986,099
)
Wynn Resorts, Ltd.
   
(3,253
)
   
(303,928
)
Total Consumer Cyclical
           
(10,196,656
)
 
               
Consumer Non-cyclical (-7.01%)
 
Celgene Corp.
   
(13,688
)
   
(1,370,032
)
Dentsply Sirona, Inc.
   
(4,625
)
   
(285,039
)
Endo International PLC
   
(10,129
)
   
(285,131
)
Mallinckrodt PLC
   
(9,380
)
   
(574,806
)
McGraw Hill Financial, Inc.
   
(1,856
)
   
(183,707
)
Moody's Corp.
   
(1,362
)
   
(131,515
)
Mylan NV
   
(12,557
)
   
(582,017
)
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
   
(2,581
)
   
(930,296
)
St Jude Medical, Inc.
   
(7,343
)
   
(403,865
)
Tenet Healthcare Corp.
   
(10,315
)
   
(298,413
)
Total Consumer Non-cyclical
           
(5,044,821
)
 
               
Energy (-19.51%)
 
Anadarko Petroleum Corp.
   
(23,096
)
   
(1,075,581
)
Apache Corp.
   
(17,919
)
   
(874,626
)
Baker Hughes, Inc.
   
(30,569
)
   
(1,339,839
)
California Resources Corp.
   
(1,605
)
   
(1,653
)
Chevron Corp.
   
(16,475
)
   
(1,571,715
)
Concho Resources, Inc.
   
(5,901
)
   
(596,237
)
ConocoPhillips
   
(38,631
)
   
(1,555,670
)
CONSOL Energy, Inc.
   
(29,863
)
   
(337,153
)
EOG Resources, Inc.
   
(14,607
)
   
(1,060,176
)
First Solar, Inc.
   
(4,833
)
   
(330,916
)
Halliburton Co.
   
(21,973
)
   
(784,876
)
Hess Corp.
   
(14,497
)
   
(763,267
)
Marathon Oil Corp.
   
(33,743
)
   
(375,897
)
Murphy Oil Corp.
   
(15,694
)
   
(395,332
)

See Notes to Financial Statements.
Semi‐Annual Report | March 31, 2016
11


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Portfolio of Investments
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Energy (continued)
 
National Oilwell Varco, Inc.
   
(16,992
)
 
$
(528,451
)
Newfield Exploration Co.
   
(9,540
)
   
(317,205
)
Noble Energy, Inc.
   
(32,321
)
   
(1,015,203
)
Pioneer Natural Resources Co.
   
(4,149
)
   
(583,930
)
Williams Cos., Inc.
   
(33,685
)
   
(541,318
)
Total Energy
           
(14,049,045
)
 
               
Financials (-11.93%)
 
Affiliated Managers Group, Inc.
   
(373
)
   
(60,575
)
Aflac, Inc.
   
(3,002
)
   
(189,546
)
Allstate Corp.
   
(2,694
)
   
(181,495
)
American Express Co.
   
(6,905
)
   
(423,967
)
Ameriprise Financial, Inc.
   
(1,179
)
   
(110,838
)
Aon PLC
   
(1,925
)
   
(201,066
)
Bank of America Corp.
   
(72,284
)
   
(977,280
)
Bank of New York Mellon Corp.
   
(7,602
)
   
(279,982
)
BlackRock, Inc.
   
(1,153
)
   
(392,677
)
Capital One Financial Corp.
   
(3,735
)
   
(258,873
)
CBRE Group, Inc. - Class A
   
(2,320
)
   
(66,862
)
Charles Schwab Corp.
   
(9,153
)
   
(256,467
)
Citigroup, Inc.
   
(20,618
)
   
(860,802
)
Citizens Financial Group, Inc.
   
(3,705
)
   
(77,620
)
Discover Financial Services
   
(2,964
)
   
(150,927
)
E*Trade Financial Corp.
   
(1,976
)
   
(48,392
)
Fifth Third Bancorp
   
(5,440
)
   
(90,794
)
Franklin Resources, Inc.
   
(4,220
)
   
(164,791
)
General Growth Properties, Inc. - REIT
   
(6,240
)
   
(185,515
)
Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. - REIT
   
(5,349
)
   
(89,328
)
Huntington Bancshares, Inc.
   
(5,575
)
   
(53,186
)
Invesco, Ltd.
   
(2,984
)
   
(91,818
)
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
   
(25,761
)
   
(1,525,566
)
Keycorp
   
(5,765
)
   
(63,646
)
Legg Mason, Inc.
   
(661
)
   
(22,923
)
Morgan Stanley
   
(13,679
)
   
(342,112
)
Navient Corp.
   
(2,202
)
   
(26,358
)
Northern Trust Corp.
   
(1,584
)
   
(103,229
)
Principal Financial Group, Inc.
   
(2,009
)
   
(79,255
)
Prologis, Inc. - REIT
   
(3,689
)
   
(162,980
)
Prudential Financial, Inc.
   
(3,100
)
   
(223,882
)
Regions Financial Corp.
   
(9,035
)
   
(70,925
)
SL Green Realty Corp. - REIT
   
(702
)
   
(68,010
)
Synchrony Financial
   
(5,961
)
   
(170,842
)

See Notes to Financial Statements.
12
www.cogniosfunds.com


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Portfolio of Investments
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Financials (continued)
 
Torchmark Corp.
   
(858
)
 
$
(46,469
)
Travelers Cos., Inc.
   
(2,103
)
   
(245,441
)
Unum Group
   
(1,671
)
   
(51,667
)
Weyerhaeuser Co. - REIT
   
(5,629
)
   
(174,386
)
Total Financials
           
(8,590,492
)
 
               
Industrials (-6.96%)
 
Agilent Technologies, Inc.
   
(8,326
)
   
(331,791
)
Allegion PLC
   
(4,292
)
   
(273,443
)
Deere & Co.
   
(14,395
)
   
(1,108,271
)
Ingersoll-Rand PLC
   
(6,548
)
   
(406,042
)
Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.
   
(4,814
)
   
(767,881
)
Ryder System, Inc.
   
(4,509
)
   
(292,093
)
Tyco International PLC
   
(10,820
)
   
(397,202
)
Vulcan Materials Co.
   
(9,393
)
   
(991,619
)
WestRock Co.
   
(11,428
)
   
(446,035
)
Total Industrials
           
(5,014,377
)
 
               
Technology (-8.97%)
 
Adobe Systems, Inc.
   
(12,780
)
   
(1,198,764
)
Analog Devices, Inc.
   
(7,870
)
   
(465,825
)
Applied Materials, Inc.
   
(28,624
)
   
(606,256
)
Autodesk, Inc.
   
(5,693
)
   
(331,959
)
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.
   
(125,343
)
   
(2,222,331
)
Salesforce.com, Inc.
   
(16,849
)
   
(1,243,962
)
SanDisk Corp.
   
(5,119
)
   
(389,454
)
Total Technology
           
(6,458,551
)
 
               
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Proceeds $56,800,162)
           
(59,166,263
)
 
               
TOTAL SECURITIES SOLD SHORT (-82.17%)
(Proceeds $56,800,162)
         
$
(59,166,263
)
 
(a) Security, or a portion of security, is being held as collateral for short sales. As of March 31, 2016, the aggregate market value of those securities was $42,767,683, which represents approximately 59.40% of the Fund's net assets.
(b) Non-income producing security.
(c) Includes segregated cash that is being held as collateral for securities sold short.
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Semi‐Annual Report | March 31, 2016
13

Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Portfolio of Investments
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Common Abbreviations:
Ltd. - Limited.
NV - Naamloze Vennootschap is the Dutch term for a public limited liability corporation.
PLC - Public Limited Company.
REIT - Real Estate Investment Trust.
 
For Fund compliance purposes, the Fund’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indices or ratings group indices and/or as defined by Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease. Industries are shown as a percent of the Fund's net assets. (Unaudited)
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
14
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Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Statement of Assets and Liabilities
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments, at value (cost $79,770,682)
 
$
84,183,718
 
Segregated cash with brokers (Note 2)
   
530,028
 
Deposit with broker for securities sold short (Note 2)
   
41,742,907
 
Receivable for shares sold
   
4,795,527
 
Dividends receivable
   
65,159
 
Prepaid assets
   
22,872
 
Total Assets
   
131,340,211
 
 
       
LIABILITIES:
       
Securities sold short (proceeds $56,800,162)
   
59,166,263
 
Payable for dividends on short sales
   
40,274
 
Payable for shares redeemed
   
27,292
 
Payable to advisor
   
62,465
 
Payable for distribution and service fees
   
3,232
 
Payable to trustees
   
805
 
Payable to chief compliance officer
   
1,713
 
Payable to principal financial officer
   
833
 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
33,942
 
Total Liabilities
   
59,336,819
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
72,003,392
 
 
       
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:
 
Paid-in capital (Note 5)
 
$
69,233,231
 
Accumulated net investment loss
   
(245,372
)
Accumulated net realized gain on investments and securities sold short
   
968,598
 
Net unrealized appreciation on investments and securities sold short
   
2,046,935
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
72,003,392
 
 
       
PRICING OF SHARES
       
Investor Class:
 
Net Asset Value, offering and redemption price per share
 
$
10.34
 
Net Assets
 
$
21,678,536
 
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding
   
2,095,756
 
Institutional Class:
 
Net Asset Value, offering and redemption price per share
 
$
10.44
 
Net Assets
 
$
50,324,856
 
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding
   
4,820,773
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 15

Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Statement of Operations
For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
 
Dividends
 
$
380,849
 
Total Investment Income
   
380,849
 
 
       
EXPENSES:
 
Investment advisory fee (Note 6)
   
236,818
 
Dividend expense on securities sold short
   
257,208
 
Interest expense
   
86,811
 
Administration fee
   
73,417
 
Distribution and service fees
       
Investor Class
   
10,878
 
Custodian fee
   
5,000
 
Legal fees
   
8,436
 
Audit fees
   
9,166
 
Transfer agent fee
   
20,944
 
Trustees fees and expenses
   
2,135
 
Registration and filing fees
   
12,150
 
Printing fees
   
2,443
 
Chief compliance officer fee
   
10,279
 
Principal financial officer fee
   
5,000
 
Insurance expense
   
1,193
 
Other expenses
   
4,294
 
Total Expenses
   
746,172
 
Less fees waived/reimbursed by investment adviser
       
Investor Class
   
(39,393
)
Institutional Class
   
(83,488
)
Total fees waived/reimbursed by investment adviser (Note 6)
   
(122,881
)
Net Expenses
   
623,291
 
NET INVESTMENT LOSS
   
(242,442
)
 
       
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS:
       
Net realized gain on:
       
Investments
   
1,032,069
 
Securities sold short
   
384,672
 
Net realized gain
   
1,416,741
 
 
       
Change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:
       
Investments
   
5,262,288
 
Securities sold short
   
(3,894,524
)
Net change
   
1,367,764
 
 
       
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN ON INVESTMENTS AND SECURITIES SOLD SHORT
   
2,784,505
 
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
2,542,063
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
16
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Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
 
 
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
 
OPERATIONS:
 
Net investment loss
 
$
(242,442
)
 
$
(296,369
)
Net realized gain on investments and securities sold short
   
1,416,741
     
682,768
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation on investments and securities sold short
   
1,367,764
     
308,970
 
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations
   
2,542,063
     
695,369
 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
From net realized gains on investments:
               
Investor Class
   
(35,903
)
   
(790,016
)
Institutional Class
   
(58,099
)
   
(1,258,654
)
Total distributions
   
(94,002
)
   
(2,048,670
)
 
               
BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS (Note 5):
 
Investor Class
 
Shares sold
   
16,699,121
     
663,066
 
Dividends reinvested
   
35,674
     
789,357
 
Shares redeemed
   
(1,830,959
)
   
(361,833
)
Net increase from beneficial share transactions
   
14,903,836
     
1,090,590
 
Institutional Class
 
Shares sold
   
39,000,928
     
1,356,121
 
Dividends reinvested
   
55,295
     
1,221,472
 
Shares redeemed
   
(1,059,539
)
   
(266,366
)
Net increase from beneficial share transactions
   
37,996,684
     
2,311,227
 
Net increase in net assets
   
55,348,581
     
2,048,516
 
 
               
NET ASSETS:
 
Beginning of year
   
16,654,811
     
14,606,295
 
End of year(including accumulated net investment loss of $(245,372) and $(2,930))
 
$
72,003,392
   
$
16,654,811
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
17

Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Statement of Cash Flows
For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
     
Net increase in net assets from operations
 
$
2,542,063
 
Adjustments to reconcile net increase in net assets from operations to net cash used in operating activities:
       
Purchases of investment securities
   
(98,288,842
)
Proceeds from disposition of investment securities
   
41,267,513
 
Proceeds from securities sold short transactions
   
62,145,267
 
Purchases to cover securities sold short transactions
   
(18,131,854
)
Net purchases of short-term investment securities
   
(1,540,580
)
Net realized gain on investments and securities sold short
   
(1,416,741
)
Net change in unrealized appreciation on investments and securities sold short
   
(1,367,764
)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
       
Increase in segregated cash with brokers
   
(495,876
)
Increase in deposit with broker for securities sold short
   
(32,759,582
)
Decrease in receivable due from adviser
   
69,746
 
Increase in dividends receivable
   
(58,310
)
Increase in prepaid assets
   
(16,200
)
Increase in payable for dividends on short sales
   
26,600
 
Increase in payable for distribution and service fees
   
1,981
 
Decrease in payable to trustees
   
(1,184
)
Decrease in accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
(14,520
)
Net cash used in operating activities
   
(48,038,283
)
 
       
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
       
Proceeds from sale of shares
   
50,904,522
 
Cost of shares redeemed
   
(2,863,206
)
Cash distributions paid
   
(3,033
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
48,038,283
 
 
       
NET INCREASE IN CASH FOR THE PERIOD
   
 
 
       
CASH, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
 
CASH, END OF PERIOD
 
$
 
 
       
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
       
Non-cash financing activities not included herein consist of reinvestment of distributions of:
 
$
90,969
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
18
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Page Intentionally Left Blank
 
 

Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund - Investor Class
Financial Highlights
For a share outstanding throughout the periods presented.
 
 
 
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2014
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2013(a)
 
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
9.68
   
$
10.77
   
$
9.93
   
$
10.00
 
 
                               
INCOME/(LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS:
 
Net investment loss(b)
   
(0.08
)
   
(0.20
)
   
(0.17
)
   
(0.12
)
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments
   
0.79
     
0.60
     
1.35
     
0.05
 
Total from investment operations
   
0.71
     
0.40
     
1.18
     
(0.07
)
 
                               
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
                               
From net realized gains on investments
   
(0.05
)
   
(1.49
)
   
(0.34
)
   
 
Total distributions
   
(0.05
)
   
(1.49
)
   
(0.34
)
   
 
NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSET VALUE
   
0.66
     
(1.09
)
   
0.84
     
(0.07
)
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD
 
$
10.34
   
$
9.68
   
$
10.77
   
$
9.93
 
 
                               
TOTAL RETURN(c)
   
7.41
%
   
4.47
%(d)
   
12.12
%
   
(0.70
%)

See Notes to Financial Statements.

20
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Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund - Investor Class
Financial Highlights (continued)
For a share outstanding throughout the periods presented.
  
   
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2014
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2013(a)
 
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
                       
Net assets, End of Period (in 000s)
 
$
21,679
   
$
6,253
   
$
5,699
   
$
5,067
 
 
                               
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS (including interest expense and dividend expense on securities sold short)
                               
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
5.03
%(e)
   
6.06
%
   
6.16
%
   
6.27
%(e)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
4.13
%(e)
   
4.12
%(f)
   
4.26
%
   
4.13
%(e)
Net investment loss including reimbursement/waiver
   
(1.68
%)(e)
   
(2.06
%)
   
(1.71
%)
   
(1.69%
)(e)
 
                               
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS (excluding interest expense and dividend expense on securities sold short)
                               
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
2.86
%(e)
   
4.04
%
   
4.15
%
   
4.38
%(e)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
1.95
%(e)
   
2.10
%(f)
   
2.25
%
   
2.25
%(e)
Net investment income including reimbursement/waiver
   
0.50
%(e)
   
(0.04
%)
   
0.30
%
   
0.19
%(e)
 
                               
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE(g)
   
94
%
   
291
%
   
461
%
   
155
%
 
(a) Commenced operations on January 2, 2013.
(b) Calculated using the average shares method.
(c) Total returns are for the period indicated and have not been annualized. Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived during the period. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(d) In 2015, 0.31% of the Fund's total return consists of a voluntary reimbursement by the adviser for a realized investment loss. Excluding this item, total return would have been 4.16%.
(e) Annualized.
(f) Contractual expense limitation changed from 2.25% to 1.95% effective April 1, 2015.
(g) Portfolio turnover rate for periods less than one full year have not been annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
21


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund - Institutional Class

Financial Highlights
For a share outstanding throughout the periods presented.

 
 
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2014
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2013(a)
 
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
9.76
   
$
10.82
   
$
9.95
   
$
10.00
 
 
                               
INCOME/(LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS:
 
Net investment loss(b)
   
(0.07
)
   
(0.18
)
   
(0.14
)
   
(0.10
)
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments
   
0.80
     
0.61
     
1.35
     
0.05
 
Total from investment operations
   
0.73
     
0.43
     
1.21
     
(0.05
)
 
                               
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
                               
From net realized gains on investments
   
(0.05
)
   
(1.49
)
   
(0.34
)
   
 
Total distributions
   
(0.05
)
   
(1.49
)
   
(0.34
)
   
 
NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSET VALUE
   
0.68
     
(1.06
)
   
0.87
     
(0.05
)
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD
 
$
10.44
   
$
9.76
   
$
10.82
   
$
9.95
 
 
                               
TOTAL RETURN(c)
   
7.55
%
   
4.77
%(d)
   
12.41
%
   
(0.50
%)

See Notes to Financial Statements.

22
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Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund - Institutional Class

Financial Highlights (continued)
For a share outstanding throughout the periods presented.

 
 
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2014
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2013(a)
 
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
 
Net assets, End of Period (in 000s)
 
$
50,325
   
$
10,402
   
$
8,907
   
$
6,128
 
 
                               
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS (including interest expense and dividend expense on securities sold short)
                               
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
4.61
%(e)
   
5.81
%
   
5.45
%
   
6.02
%(e)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
3.88
%(e)
   
3.86
%(f)
   
4.01
%
   
3.88
%(e)
Net investment loss including reimbursement/waiver
   
(1.48%
)(e)
   
(1.80
%)
   
(1.37
%)
   
(1.42%
)(e)
 
                               
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS (excluding interest expense and dividend expense on securities sold short)
                               
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
2.43
%(e)
   
3.79
%
   
3.43
%
   
4.13
%(e)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
1.70
%(e)
   
1.84
%(f)
   
2.00
%
   
2.00
%(e)
Net investment income including reimbursement/waiver
   
0.70
%(e)
   
0.21
%
   
0.65
%
   
0.46
%(e)
 
                               
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE(g)
   
94
%
   
291
%
   
461
%
   
155
%
 
(a) Commenced operations on January 2, 2013.
(b) Calculated using the average shares method.
(c) Total returns are for the period indicated and have not been annualized. Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived during the period. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(d) In 2015, 0.33% of the Fund's total return consists of a voluntary reimbursement by the adviser for a realized investment loss. Excluding this item, total return would have been 4.44%.
(e) Annualized.
(f) Contractual expense limitation changed from 2.00% to 1.70% effective April 1, 2015.
(g) Portfolio turnover rate for periods less than one full year have not been annualized.
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
 23


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Notes to Financial Statements
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 
ALPS Series Trust (the “Trust”), a Delaware statutory trust, is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). As of March 31, 2016, the Trust had 8 registered funds. This semi-annual report describes the Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund (the “Fund”). The Fund seeks long-term growth of capital independent of stock market direction. The Fund currently offers Investor Class shares and Institutional Class shares. Each share class has identical rights to earnings, assets and voting privileges, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. The Board of Trustees (the “Board”) may establish additional funds and classes of shares at any time in the future without shareholder approval.
 
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 
The accompanying financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for investment companies (“U.S. GAAP”). The Fund is considered an investment company for financial reporting purposes. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in preparation of its financial statements.
 
Investment Valuation: The Fund generally values its securities based on market prices determined at the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, on each day the NYSE is open for trading.
 
Securities traded on a registered U.S. securities exchange (including exchange-traded derivatives other than futures and futures options) are valued based on the last sale price of the security reported on the principal exchange on which it is traded, prior to the time when the Fund’s assets are valued. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, or if such closing prices are not otherwise available, the securities are valued at the mean of the most recent bid and ask prices on such day.
 
Redeemable securities issued by open-end registered investment companies are valued at the investment company’s applicable net asset value, with the exception of exchange-traded open-end investment companies, which are priced as equity securities.
 
When such prices or quotations are not available, or when the Fair Value Committee appointed by the Board believes that they are unreliable, securities may be priced using fair value procedures approved by the Board.
 
Fair Value Measurements: The Fund discloses the classification of its fair value measurements following a three-tier hierarchy based on the inputs used to measure fair value. Inputs refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity. Unobservable inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on the best information available.
 

24
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Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Notes to Financial Statements
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments as of the end of the reporting period. When inputs used fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the hierarchy within which the fair value measurement falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The designated input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with these investments. These inputs are categorized in the following hierarchy under applicable financial accounting standards:
 
Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical investments, unrestricted assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access at the measurement date;
 
Level 2 – Quoted prices which are not active, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable (either directly or indirectly) for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; and
 
Level 3 – Significant unobservable prices or inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments) where there is little or no market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date.
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of March 31, 2016:
 
Investments in Securities at Value
 
Level 1 - Unadjusted Quoted Prices
   
Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs
   
Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs
   
Total
 
Common Stocks
                       
Basic Materials
 
$
424,306
   
$
   
$
   
$
424,306
 
Communications
   
7,565,602
     
     
     
7,565,602
 
Consumer Cyclical
   
5,744,792
     
     
     
5,744,792
 
Consumer Non-cyclical
   
29,958,672
     
     
     
29,958,672
 
Energy
   
3,375,863
     
     
     
3,375,863
 
Financials
   
1,878,715
     
     
     
1,878,715
 
Industrials
   
16,680,037
     
     
     
16,680,037
 
Technology
   
15,903,916
     
     
     
15,903,916
 
Utilities
   
902,579
     
     
     
902,579
 
Short Term Investments
   
1,749,236
     
     
     
1,749,236
 
Total
 
$
84,183,718
   
$
   
$
   
$
84,183,718
 
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
 25


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Notes to Financial Statements
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Investments in Securities at Value
 
Level 1 - Unadjusted Quoted Prices
   
Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs
   
Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs
   
Total
 
Other Financial Instruments
 
Liabilities
 
Securities Sold Short
                       
Basic Materials
 
$
(4,486,930
)
 
$
   
$
   
$
(4,486,930
)
Communications
   
(5,325,391
)
   
     
     
(5,325,391
)
Consumer Cyclical
   
(10,196,656
)
   
     
     
(10,196,656
)
Consumer Non-cyclical
   
(5,044,821
)
   
     
     
(5,044,821
)
Energy
   
(14,049,045
)
   
     
     
(14,049,045
)
Financials
   
(8,590,492
)
   
     
     
(8,590,492
)
Industrials
   
(5,014,377
)
   
     
     
(5,014,377
)
Technology
   
(6,458,551
)
   
     
     
(6,458,551
)
Total
 
$
(59,166,263
)
 
$
   
$
   
$
(59,166,263
)
 
The Fund recognizes transfers between levels as of the end of the period. For the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 securities. There were no Level 3 securities held during the period.
 
Trust Expenses: Some expenses of the Trust can be directly attributed to the Fund. Expenses that cannot be directly attributed to the Fund are apportioned among all funds in the Trust based on average net assets of each fund.
 
Fund Expenses: Some expenses can be directly attributed to the Fund and are apportioned among the classes based on average net assets of each class.
 
Class Expenses: Expenses that are specific to a class of shares are charged directly to that share class. Fees provided under the distribution (Rule 12b-1) and/or shareholder service plans for a particular class of the Fund are charged to the operations of such class.
 
Federal Income Taxes: The Fund complies with the requirements under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies and intends to distribute substantially all of its net taxable income and net capital gains, if any, each year so that it will not be subject to excise tax on undistributed income and gains. The Fund is not subject to income taxes to the extent such distributions are made.
 
As of and during the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have a liability for any unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying financial statements. The Fund files U.S. federal, state and local income tax returns as required. The Fund’s tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant tax authorities until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years after the filing of the tax return for federal purposes and four years for most state returns. If applicable, the Fund’s administrator has analyzed the Fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state income tax returns for all open tax years and has concluded that as of March 31, 2016, no provision for income tax is required in the Fund’s financial statements related to these tax positions.
 

26
www.cogniosfunds.com

Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Notes to Financial Statements
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Investment Transactions and Investment Income: Investment transactions are accounted for on the date the investments are purchased or sold (trade date basis). Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are reported on an identified cost basis. Interest income, which includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is accrued and recorded as earned. Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date. All of the realized and unrealized gains and losses and net investment income are allocated daily to each class in proportion to its average daily net assets.
 
Distributions to Shareholders: The Fund normally pays dividends, if any, quarterly and distributes capital gains, if any, on an annual basis. Income dividend distributions are derived from interest and other income the Fund receives from its investments, including short term capital gains. Long term capital gain distributions are derived from gains realized when the Fund sells a security it has owned for more than one year. The Fund may make additional distributions and dividends at other times if its portfolio manager or managers believe doing so may be necessary for the Fund to avoid or reduce taxes. Net investment income/(loss) and net realized gain/(loss) may differ for financial statement and tax purposes.
 
Short Sales: The Fund may sell securities short. To do this, Cognios Capital, LLC (the “Adviser”) will borrow and then sell (take short positions in) equity securities of U.S. companies that the Adviser believes are likely to underperform the long positions over time. To complete such a transaction, the Fund must borrow the security to deliver to the buyer. The Fund then is obligated to replace the security borrowed by purchasing it in the open market at some later date. The Fund bears the risk of a loss if the market price of the security increases between the date of the short sale and the date on which the Fund replaces the borrowed security. The Fund will realize a gain if the security declines in value between those dates. There can be no assurance that securities necessary to cover a short position will be available for purchase. To mitigate leverage risk, the Fund will segregate liquid assets (which may include its long positions) at least equal to its short position exposure, marked-to-market daily. The Fund maintains collateral consisting of cash, U.S. Government securities or other liquid assets in an amount at least equal to the market value of their respective short positions. The Fund is liable for any dividends or interest payable on securities while those securities are in a short position. The Fund typically intends to hold securities sold short for the long term, therefore, they are included in the purchase and sales of investments in Note 4 and the Fund’s Portfolio Turnover Calculation in the Financial Highlights. As of March 31, 2016, the Fund held securities sold short with a market value of $59,166,263.
 
3. TAX BASIS INFORMATION

 
Tax Basis of Distributions to Shareholders: The character of distributions made during the period from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from its ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. Also, due to the timing of dividend distributions, the fiscal year in which amounts are distributed may differ from the fiscal year in which the income or realized gain were recorded by the Fund. The amounts and characteristics of tax basis distributions and composition of distributable earnings/(accumulated losses) are finalized at fiscal year-end. Accordingly, tax basis balances have not been determined as of the date of the semi-annual.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
 27


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Notes to Financial Statements
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

The tax character of distributions paid by the Fund for the fiscal years ended September 30 were as follows:
 
Distributions Paid From:
 
2015
 
Ordinary Income
 
$
1,541,660
 
Capital Gains
   
507,010
 
Total
 
$
2,048,670
 
 
Unrealized Appreciation and Depreciation on Investments: As of March 31, 2016, the aggregate cost of investments, gross unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) and net unrealized appreciation for Federal tax purposes were as follows:
 
Gross unrealized appreciation (excess of value over tax cost)
 
$
5,236,991
 
Gross unrealized depreciation (excess of tax cost over value)
   
(1,220,347
)
Net unrealized appreciation
 
$
4,016,644
 
Cost of investments for income tax purposes
 
$
80,167,074
 
 
4. SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS

 
Purchases and sales of securities, excluding securities sold short intended to be held for less than one year and short-term securities, during the period ended March 31, 2016, were as follows:
 
 
 
Purchases of Securities
   
Proceeds from Sales of Securities
 
 
 
$
160,434,109
   
$
59,397,877
 
 
5. BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

 
The capitalization of the Trust consists of an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest with no par value per share. Holders of the shares of the Fund have one vote for each share held and a proportionate fraction of a vote for each fractional share. All shares issued and outstanding are fully paid and are transferable and redeemable at the option of the shareholder. Shares have no pre-emptive rights. Neither the Fund nor any of its creditors has the right to require shareholders to pay any additional amounts solely because the shareholder owns the shares.
 

28
www.cogniosfunds.com

Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Notes to Financial Statements
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Transactions in common shares were as follows:
 
 
 
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
 
Investor Class
           
Shares sold
   
1,626,132
     
66,223
 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions to shareholders
   
3,666
     
85,987
 
Shares redeemed
   
(179,666
)
   
(35,577
)
Net increase in shares outstanding
   
1,450,132
     
116,633
 
Institutional Class
               
Shares sold
   
3,852,195
     
138,741
 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions to shareholders
   
5,642
     
132,338
 
Shares redeemed
   
(103,318
)
   
(28,198
)
Net increase in shares outstanding
   
3,754,519
     
242,881
 
 
Control is defined by the 1940 Act as the beneficial ownership, either directly or through one or more controlled companies, of more than 25% of the voting securities of a company. Approximately 56% of the shares outstanding are held within one omnibus account. Investment activities of these shareholders could have a material impact on the Fund.
 
6. MANAGEMENT AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 
Investment Advisory: Cognios Capital, LLC (“Cognios Capital” or the “Adviser”), subject to the authority of the Board, is responsible for the overall management and administration of the Fund’s business affairs. The Adviser manages the investments of the Fund in accordance with the Fund’s investment objective, policies and limitations and investment guidelines established jointly by the Adviser and the Board.
 
Pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement (the “Advisory Agreement”) with the Adviser, the Fund pays the Adviser an annual management fee of 1.50% based on the Fund’s average daily net assets. The management fee is paid on a monthly basis. The initial term of the Advisory Agreement is two years. The Board may extend the Advisory Agreement for additional one-year terms. The Board, shareholders of the Fund or the Adviser may terminate the Advisory Agreement upon 60 days’ notice.
 
Pursuant to a fee waiver letter agreement (the “Fee Waiver Agreement”), the Adviser has agreed contractually to reduce the fees payable to it under the Advisory Agreement (but not below zero) and/or reimburse other expenses of the Fund attributable to services provided by the Fund’s administrator and its affiliates (including, but not limited to, organizational expenses and offering costs), to the extent necessary to limit the Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses of each of the Investor Class and Institutional Class shares of the Fund (exclusive of brokerage costs, interest, taxes, dividends, litigation expenses, indemnification amounts, borrowing costs, brokerage expenses and dividend expenses on securities sold short, distribution/12b-1 fees and extraordinary expenses) to 1.70% of the Fund’s average annual net assets. The Fee Waiver Agreement is in effect through January 31, 2017 and may not be terminated or modified prior to this date except with the approval of the Fund’s Board of Trustees. The Adviser will be permitted to recover expenses on a class-by-class basis expenses it has borne through the Fee Waiver Agreement to the extent that the Fund’s expenses in later periods fall below the annual rates set forth in the Fee Waiver Agreement. The Fund will not be obligated to pay any such deferred fees and expenses more than three years after the end of the fiscal year in which the fees and expenses were deferred.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
 29


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund
Notes to Financial Statements
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
For the six-month period ended March 31, 2016, the fee waivers and/or reimbursements were as follows:
 
 
 
Fees Waived/
Reimbursed by
Adviser
 
Investor Class
 
$
(39,393
)
Institutional Class
   
(83,488
)
TOTAL
 
$
(122,881
)
 
As of September 30, 2015, the balances of recoupable expenses for each class were as follows:
 
 
 
Expiring in 2016
   
Expiring in 2017
   
Expiring in 2018
 
Investor Class
   
79,516
     
92,010
     
116,046
 
Institutional Class
   
88,889
     
125,421
     
186,946
 
 
Administrator: ALPS Fund Services, Inc. (“ALPS”) (an affiliate of ALPS Distributors, Inc.) serves as administrator to the Fund. The Fund has agreed to pay expenses incurred in connection with its administrative activities. Pursuant to the Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement with the Trust, ALPS will provide operational services to the Fund including, but not limited to, fund accounting and fund administration and generally assist in the Fund’s operations. The Fund’s administration fee is accrued on a daily basis and paid monthly. The officers of the Trust are employees of ALPS. Administration fees paid by the Fund for the fiscal period ended March 31, 2016 are disclosed in the Statement of Operations. ALPS is reimbursed by the Fund for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 
Transfer Agent: ALPS serves as transfer agent for the Fund under a Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund plus fees for open accounts and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 
Compliance Services: ALPS provides services as the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer to monitor and test the policies and procedures of the Fund in conjunction with requirements under Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act pursuant to a Chief Compliance Officer Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 
Principal Financial Officer: ALPS receives an annual fee for providing Principal Financial Officer services to the Fund and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 

30
www.cogniosfunds.com


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Notes to Financial Statements
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Distribution: ALPS Distributors, Inc. (the “Distributor”) (an affiliate of ALPS) acts as the principal underwriter of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with the Trust. Shares of the Fund are offered on a continuous basis through the Distributor, as agent of the Fund. The Distributor is not obligated to sell any particular amount of shares and is not entitled to any compensation for its services as the Fund’s principal underwriter pursuant to the Distribution Agreement.
 
The Fund has adopted a Distribution and Services Plan (the “Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act for its Investor Class shares. The Plan allows the Fund to use Investor Class assets to pay fees in connection with the distribution and marketing of Investor Class shares and/or the provision of shareholder services to Investor Class shareholders. The Plan permits payment for services in connection with the administration of plans or programs that use Investor Class shares of the Fund, if any, as their funding medium and for related expenses. The Plan permits the Fund to make total payments at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to its Investor Class shares. Because these fees are paid out of the Fund’s Investor Class assets, if any, on an ongoing basis, over time they will increase the cost of an investment in the Investor Class shares, if any, and Plan fees may cost an investor more than other types of sales charges. Plan fees are shown as distribution and service fees on the Statement of Operations.
 
7. TRUSTEES

 
As of March 31, 2016, there were four Trustees, three of whom are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”). The Independent Trustees receive a quarterly retainer of $4,000, plus $2,000 for each regular Board or Committee meeting attended, $2,000 for each special telephonic Board or Committee meeting attended and $2,000 for each special in-person Board meeting attended. The Independent Trustees are also reimbursed for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at meetings and for meeting-related expenses. Officers of the Trust and Trustees who are interested persons of the Trust receive no salary or fees from the Trust.
 
8. INDEMNIFICATIONS

 
Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts with service providers that may contain general indemnification clauses which may permit indemnification to the extent permissible under applicable law. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
 31


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Additional Information
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

1. PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND VOTING RECORD

 
A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge, upon request, (i) by calling the Fund (toll-free) at 1-855-254-6467, or (ii) on the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) at http://www.sec.gov.
 
Information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available (i) without charge, upon request, by calling the Fund (toll-free) at 1-855-254-6467 or (ii) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.
 
2. PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS

 
The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Forms N-Q are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C., and information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.
 
3. DISCLOSURE REGARDING RENEWAL AND APPROVAL OF FUND ADVISORY AGREEMENT

 
On November 19, 2015, the Trustees met in person to discuss, among other things, the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and Cognios Capital (the “Advisory Agreement”) in accordance with Section 15(c) of the 1940 Act. The Independent Trustees met with independent legal counsel during executive session and discussed the Advisory Agreement and other related materials.
 
In renewing and approving the Advisory Agreement with Cognios Capital, the Trustees, including all of the Independent Trustees, considered the following factors with respect to the Fund:
 
Investment Advisory Fee Rate: The Trustees reviewed and considered the contractual annual advisory fee paid by the Fund to Cognios Capital of 1.50% of the Fund’s daily average net assets, in light of the extent and quality of the advisory services to be provided by Cognios Capital to the Fund.
 
The Trustees considered the information they received comparing the Fund’s contractual annual advisory fee and overall expenses (net of waivers) with those of funds in the peer group selected by an independent provider of investment company data. The Trustees noted the following: (i) the Fund’s Investor Class total expense ratio of 1.95% is below its peer group average and the same as its peer group median; and (ii) the Fund’s Institutional Class total expense ratio of 1.70% is below the peer group average and the same as the peer group median. After consideration, the Trustees further determined that the contractual annual advisory fee of 1.50% of the Fund and the total expense ratios of 1.95% for the Fund’s Investor Class and 1.70% for the Fund’s Institutional Class, respectively, taking into account the contractual fee waiver in place, are comparable to others within the Fund’s peer group.
 

32
www.cogniosfunds.com


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Additional Information
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services under the Advisory Agreement: The Trustees received and considered information regarding the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement. The Trustees reviewed certain background materials supplied by Cognios Capital in its presentation, including its Form ADV.
 
The Trustees reviewed and considered Cognios Capital’s investment advisory personnel, its history as an asset manager and its performance and the amount of assets currently under management by Cognios Capital and its affiliated entities. The Trustees also reviewed the research and decision-making processes utilized by Cognios Capital, including the methods adopted to seek to achieve compliance with the investment objectives, policies and restrictions of the Fund.
 
The Trustees considered the background and experience of Cognios Capital’s management in connection with the Fund, including reviewing the qualifications, backgrounds and responsibilities of the management team primarily responsible for the day-to-day portfolio management of the Fund and the extent of the resources devoted to research and analysis of actual and potential investments. The Trustees also reviewed, among other things, Cognios Capital’s Code of Ethics.
 
Performance: The Trustees reviewed performance information for the Fund’s Investor Class and Institutional Class shares for the one-year and year-to-date periods ended September 30, 2015. That review included a comparison of the Fund’s performance to the performance of a peer group of comparable funds selected by an independent provider of investment company data. The Trustees noted that, for the one-year period ended September 30, 2015, the performance of the Fund’s Institutional Class ranked first in its peer group and the performance of the Fund’s Investor Class ranked second in its peer group. The Trustees also considered Cognios Capital’s discussion of the top contributors to and detractors from the Fund’s performance results, as well as Cognios Capital’s performance and reputation generally and its investment techniques, risk management controls and decision-making processes.
 
Accounts Using Comparable Strategies: The Trustees reviewed the information provided by Cognios Capital regarding three other accounts that employ comparable strategies to the Fund and the fees charged with respect to such accounts.
 
The Adviser’s Profitability: The Trustees received and considered a current and projected profitability analysis prepared by Cognios Capital based on the fees paid under the Advisory Agreement. The Trustees considered the profits, if any, that have been realized or are anticipated to be realized by Cognios Capital in connection with the operation of the Fund. The Trustees also reviewed and discussed the financial statement information provided by Cognios Capital for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, as well as for the year-to-date period ended September 30, 2015, in order to analyze the financial condition and stability and profitability of Cognios Capital.
 
Economies of Scale: The Trustees considered whether economies of scale in the provision of services to the Fund will be passed along to the shareholders under the Advisory Agreement.
 
Other Benefits to the Adviser: The Trustees reviewed and considered any other incidental benefits derived or to be derived by Cognios Capital from its relationship with the Fund, noting that Cognios Capital does not use soft dollars and does not have any soft-dollar arrangements.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
 33


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Additional Information
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
During the review process, the Trustees noted certain instances where clarification or follow-up was appropriate and others where the Trustees determined that further clarification or follow-up was not necessary. In those instances where clarification or follow-up was requested, the Board determined that in each case either information responsive to its requests had been provided, or where any request was outstanding in whole or in part, given the totality of the information provided, the Board had received sufficient information to approve the Advisory Agreement with Cognios Capital.
 
The Board summarized its deliberations with respect to the proposed renewal of the Advisory Agreement with Cognios Capital. In selecting Cognios Capital as the Fund’s investment adviser and determining to renew the Advisory Agreement and the fees charged under the Advisory Agreement, the Trustees concluded that no single factor reviewed by the Trustees was determinative. Further, the Board noted that the Independent Trustees were advised by separate independent legal counsel throughout the process. The Trustees, including all of the Independent Trustees, concluded that:
 
 
the contractual annual advisory fees of 1.50% of the Fund’s daily average net assets paid to Cognios Capital under the Advisory Agreement and the total expense ratios of 1.95% and 1.70% for the Investment Class and Institutional Class, respectively, taking into account the contractual fee waiver in place, continue to be fair to the Fund’s shareholders;
 
 
the terms and provisions of the fee waiver letter agreement between the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, and Cognios Capital were not unreasonable;
 
 
the nature, extent and quality of services rendered by Cognios Capital under the Advisory Agreement were adequate;
 
 
while the performance history of the Fund was short in that the Fund did not yet have a three-year track record, the Fund’s performance compared favorably to its peer group provided by an independent provider of investment company data for the most recent one-year and third-month periods;
 
 
bearing in mind the limitations of comparing different types of managed accounts and the different levels of service typically associated with such accounts, the fee structures applicable to Cognios Capital’s other clients employing a comparable strategy to the Fund were not indicative of any unreasonableness with respect to the advisory fee payable by the Fund;
 
 
the profit, if any, realized by Cognios Capital in connection with the operation of the Fund was not unreasonable to the Fund, noting that Cognios Capital had not realized a profit in 2015 and expects to realize a modest profit in connection with the operation of the Fund in 2016; and
 
 
there were no material economies of scale or other material incidental benefits accruing to Cognios Capital in connection with its relationship with the Fund.
 

34
www.cogniosfunds.com


Cognios Market Neutral Large Cap Fund

Additional Information
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Based on the Trustees’ deliberations and their evaluation of the information described above, the Trustees, including all of the Independent Trustees, concluded that Cognios Capital’s compensation for investment advisory services is consistent with the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
 35
 

 
 
 
Page Intentionally Left Blank
 
 
 
 

 

 
 
 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
Shareholder Letter
1
Portfolio Update
2
Disclosure of Fund Expenses
4
Portfolio of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
7
Statement of Operations
8
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
9
Financial Highlights
10
Notes to Financial Statements
11
Additional Information
15
 

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Investment Environment
After the panic selling in mid-to-late third quarter 2015, which was focused on worries about economic weakness in China threatening global growth, U.S. equities rallied in October and then drifted lower to close 2015. The equity advance lacked both fundamental and technical conviction though, as angst appeared to lurk just below the surface. Investors pondered a widely signaled December rate increase by the Federal Reserve (the “Fed”), and the price of oil moved below $45 in November and below $40 in December. The falling price of oil, which has long been considered a barometer for the global economy, appeared at odds with a Fed rate hike. The hike came, however, despite the weakness, though it may have been at least partially an effort by the Fed to re-establish credibility after similarly advertising a September raise, then “blinking” in the face of market turbulence.
 
Early 2016 brought another round of sharp declines in equity prices and bond yields as optimism suffered another blow on fears that years of extraordinary monetary policy had yet to overcome deflation or persistent growth pressures. Lower prices however, may have been as much a cause of the deteriorating view as they were a result of it because large, steady, mature stocks faired well and cyclical stocks began to move higher even in the midst of the debate on economic growth. The U.S. 10-year bond yield moved aggressively lower, dropping from 2.2% to 1.8% by the end of the quarter. That stark message from the bond market overwhelmed the Fed’s recently articulated plan for as many as four rate hikes in 2016 such that the Fed revised its guidance to only one or two hikes in 2016 with a promise to remain data dependent.
 
Performance
For the six month period ended March 31, 2016, the Cupps All Cap Growth Fund lost 4.79% and the benchmark Russell 3000® Growth Index advanced 7.45%.
 
In fourth quarter 2015, our growth stocks lagged the initial surge that followed the third quarter correction. In what we have witnessed over the years as a typical pattern, the initial rebound after a sharp correction is dominated by the most battered and inexpensive stocks rather than the secular leaders, and the pattern held true in this case too. The portfolio outperformed for the remainder of the quarter, but was unable to close the performance gap.
 
In first quarter 2016, the equity markets were roiled by the bond market. The Russell 3000® Growth declined over 11% in the first five weeks of the quarter, but then rallied back to finish the quarter nearly unchanged. There were clear winners among businesses perceived to be the most steady and predictable, but there were meaningful losses among the more dynamic growth companies the Fund favors, even among many companies experiencing very positive business conditions.
 
Outlook 
There are three important considerations, from our perspective, that make a strong case for dedicated exposure to higher growth stocks despite two quarters of sharp underperformance: 1) Economy: key market forces, namely oil, currency and interest rates, are adjusting dynamically to the perceived deterioration such that they have swung to positive growth forces from negative ones, 2) Capital positioning: the multiyear movement of capital into yield and steady growth stocks has positioned “everyone on one side of the boat” such that we believe it will be nearly impossible for investors to adjust effectively when a change in the investment environment occurs, 3) Valuation: with a sharp focus on yield, valuations, defined by revenue multiples and price/earnings to growth multiples, have climbed to levels that are treacherous and likely unsustainable among “steady” stocks and compellingly attractive among many dynamic growth stocks, from the perspective of our 25 years of investing.
 
The Russell 3000® Index is a widely recognized, unmanaged index that measures the performance of the broad growth segment of the U.S. equity universe. It includes those Russell 3000 companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. As of March 31, 2016, the Russell 3000® Growth Index included securities issued by companies that ranged in size between $15 million and $604 billion. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 
The price/earnings to growth ratio is a stock’s price-to-earnings ratio divided by the growth rate of its earning for a specified time period.
 
The views and information discussed in this commentary are as of the date of publication, are subject to change, and may not reflect the writer’s current views. The views expressed are those of the Fund’s adviser only, and represent an assessment of market conditions at a specific point in time, are opinions only and should not be relied upon as investment advice regarding a particular investment or markets in general. Such information does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell specific securities or investment vehicles. It should not be assumed that any investment will be profitable or will equal the performance of the fund(s) or any securities or any sectors mentioned in this letter. The subject matter contained in this letter has been derived from several sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of compilation. Neither the Fund nor the Adviser accepts any liability for losses either direct or consequential caused by the use of this information.
 
Not FDIC Insured – No Bank Guarantee – May Lose Value
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with Cupps Management, LLC.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 1

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Portfolio Update

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Performance (as of March 31, 2016)
 
 
3 Month
6 Month
1 Year
Since Inception*
Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
-8.11%
-4.79%
-7.77%
-1.49%
Russell 3000® Growth Index(a)
0.34%
7.45%
1.34%
6.62%
 
The performance data quoted above represents past performance. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and value of the Fund shares will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Performance may be lower or higher than performance data quoted. Fund performance current to the most recent month-end is available by calling (844) 751-5731 or by visiting www.cuppsfunds.com.
 
* Fund’s inception date is June 30, 2014.
 
(a) The Russell 3000® Index is a widely recognized, unmanaged index that measures the performance of the broad growth segment of the U.S. equity universe. It includes those Russell 3000 companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. As of March 31, 2016, the Russell 3000® Growth Index included securities issued by companies that ranged in size between $15 million and $604 billion. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 
Returns of less than 1 year are cumulative.
 
Indices are not actively managed and do not reflect deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. An investor cannot invest directly in an index.
 
The returns shown above do not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or redemption of Fund shares.
 
The total annual operating expenses and total annual operating expenses after fee waivers and/or reimbursement you may pay as an investor in the Fund (as reported in the January 28, 2016 Prospectus) are 12.51% and 1.05%, respectively. The Fund’s investment adviser has contractually agreed to limit expenses through January 31, 2017.
 
Performance of $10,000 Initial Investment (as of March 31, 2016)
 
(LINE GRAPH)
 
The graph shown above represents historical performance of a hypothetical investment of $10,000 in the Fund since inception. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All returns reflect reinvested dividends, but do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
 

2
www.cuppsfunds.com

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Portfolio Update

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Sector Allocation (as a % of Net Assets)*
 
Technology
26.71%
Communications
23.00%
Consumer, Non-cyclical
21.18%
Consumer, Cyclical
18.28%
Financial
5.54%
Industrial
3.43%
Basic Materials
2.28%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets
-0.42%
Totals
100.00%
 
Top 10 Long Holdings (as a % of Net Assets)*
 
Amazon.com, Inc.
5.49%
Alphabet, Inc. - Class A
5.01%
Apple, Inc.
3.89%
Facebook, Inc. - Class A
3.74%
Broadcom Ltd.
3.54%
Visa, Inc. - Class A
3.29%
Salesforce.com, Inc.
3.26%
Microsoft Corp.
2.75%
Edwards Lifesciences Corp.
2.47%
Ultimate Software Group, Inc.
2.34%
Top Ten Holdings
35.78%
 
* Holdings are subject to change, and may not reflect the current or future position of the portfolio. Tables present indicative values only.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 3

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Disclosure of Fund Expenses

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Examples. As a shareholder of the Cupps All Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”), you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including applicable redemption fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and other Fund expenses. The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested on October 1, 2015 and held through March 31, 2016.
 
Actual Expenses. The first line of the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period October 1, 2015 – March 31, 2016” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes. The second line of 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 mutual funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
 
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing Fund costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as redemption fees. Therefore, the second line of 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 transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
 
 
Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2015
Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2016
Expense
Ratio(a)
Expense Paid
During Period
October 1, 2015 -
March 31, 2016(b)
Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Actual
$1,000.00
$952.10
1.05%
$5.12
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.75
1.05%
$5.30
 
 (a) The Fund's expenses have been annualized based on the Fund's most recent fiscal half-year expenses.
 (b) Expenses are equal to the Fund's annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year (183), divided by 366.
 

4
www.cuppsfunds.com

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
COMMON STOCKS (100.42%)
 
Basic Materials (2.28%)
 
Albemarle Corp.
   
1,075
   
$
68,725
 
Total Basic Materials
     
68,725
 
 
               
Communications (23.00%)
 
Alphabet, Inc. - Class A(a)
   
198
     
151,054
 
Amazon.com, Inc.(a)
   
279
     
165,626
 
Charter Communications, Inc. - Class A(a)
   
245
     
49,595
 
Cisco Systems, Inc.
   
1,330
     
37,865
 
Ctrip.com International Ltd. - ADR(a)
   
505
     
22,351
 
Facebook, Inc. - Class A(a)
   
988
     
112,731
 
GoDaddy, Inc. - Class A(a)
   
1,340
     
43,322
 
Netflix, Inc.(a)
   
419
     
42,835
 
Palo Alto Networks, Inc.(a)
   
420
     
68,519
 
Total Communications
     
693,898
 
 
               
Consumer, Cyclical (18.28%)
 
Burlington Stores, Inc.(a)
   
1,000
     
56,240
 
CarMax, Inc.(a)
   
295
     
15,075
 
Delphi Automotive PLC
   
325
     
24,381
 
Delta Air Lines, Inc.
   
1,415
     
68,882
 
Domino's Pizza, Inc.
   
360
     
47,470
 
McDonald's Corp.
   
345
     
43,360
 
MGM Resorts International(a)
   
2,110
     
45,238
 
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
   
576
     
47,318
 
Starbucks Corp.
   
763
     
45,551
 
Tesla Motors, Inc.(a)
   
193
     
44,346
 
Texas Roadhouse, Inc.
   
695
     
30,288
 
Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc.(a)
   
155
     
30,030
 
Vail Resorts, Inc.
   
399
     
53,346
 
Total Consumer, Cyclical
     
551,525
 
 
               
Consumer, Non-cyclical (21.18%)
 
ABIOMED, Inc.(a)
   
651
     
61,721
 
Acadia Healthcare Co., Inc.(a)
   
390
     
21,493
 
Boston Scientific Corp.(a)
   
2,115
     
39,783
 
Constellation Brands, Inc. - Class A
   
214
     
32,333
 
CoStar Group, Inc.(a)
   
240
     
45,161
 
DexCom, Inc.(a)
   
792
     
53,785
 
Edwards Lifesciences Corp.(a)
   
844
     
74,449
 
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
   
328
     
30,130
 
Hologic, Inc.(a)
   
885
     
30,533
 
Intrexon Corp.
   
795
     
26,943
 
Nevro Corp.(a)
   
715
     
40,226
 
Nielsen Holdings PLC
   
865
     
45,551
 
PayPal Holdings, Inc.(a)
   
1,690
     
65,234
 
Post Holdings, Inc.(a)
   
599
     
41,193
 
The WhiteWave Foods Co.(a)
   
755
     
30,683
 
Total Consumer, Non-cyclical
     
639,218
 
 
 
 
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Financial (5.54%)
 
E*Trade Financial Corp.(a)
   
1,539
   
$
37,690
 
Interactive Brokers Group, Inc. - Class A
   
770
     
30,276
 
Visa, Inc. - Class A
   
1,296
     
99,118
 
Total Financial
     
167,084
 
 
               
Industrial (3.43%)
 
Graco, Inc.
   
270
     
22,669
 
Rockwell Automation, Inc.
   
134
     
15,243
 
Vulcan Materials Co.
   
500
     
52,785
 
XPO Logistics, Inc.(a)
   
420
     
12,894
 
Total Industrial
     
103,591
 
 
               
Technology (26.71%)
 
Apple, Inc.
   
1,078
     
117,491
 
Applied Materials, Inc.
   
1,820
     
38,547
 
Broadcom Ltd.
   
692
     
106,914
 
Cavium, Inc.(a)
   
1,067
     
65,258
 
Electronic Arts, Inc.(a)
   
683
     
45,153
 
Genpact Ltd.(a)
   
1,889
     
51,362
 
M/A-COM Technology Solutions Holdings, Inc.(a)
   
1,030
     
45,104
 
Microsoft Corp.
   
1,500
     
82,845
 
Salesforce.com, Inc.(a)
   
1,331
     
98,268
 
ServiceNow, Inc.(a)
   
600
     
36,708
 
Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
   
611
     
47,597
 
Ultimate Software Group, Inc.(a)
   
365
     
70,627
 
Total Technology
     
805,874
 
 
               
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $2,641,237)
           
3,029,915
 
 
 
 
7-Day
Yield
   
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (0.05%)
 
Money Market Fund (0.05%)
 
Fidelity Institutional Money Market Portfolio
   
0.35365
%
   
1,514
     
1,514
 
                         
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost $1,514)
                   
1,514
 
 
                       
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (100.47%)
(Cost $2,642,751)
                 
$
3,031,429
 
 
                       
Liabilities In Excess Of Other Assets (-0.47%)
     
(14,157
)
 
                       
NET ASSETS (100.00%)
           
$
3,017,272
 
 
(a) Non-income producing security.
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
5

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Common Abbreviations:
ADR - American Depositary Receipt.
Ltd. - Limited.
PLC - Public Limited Company.
 
For Fund compliance purposes, the Fund's industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indices or ratings group indices, and/or as defined by Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease. Industries are shown as a percentage of the Fund's net assets. (unaudited)
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

6
www.cuppsfunds.com

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Statement of Assets and Liabilities

 
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

ASSETS
     
Investments, at value (Cost $2,642,751)
 
$
3,031,429
 
Cash
   
346
 
Receivable for investments sold
   
98,331
 
Dividend and interest receivable
   
759
 
Receivable due from advisor
   
20,233
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
5,890
 
Total Assets
   
3,156,988
 
LIABILITIES
       
Payable for investments purchased
   
98,292
 
Payable due to Chief Compliance Officer
   
1,666
 
Administration and transfer agency fees payable
   
20,467
 
Trustees' fees and expenses payable
   
261
 
Legal fees payable
   
4,371
 
Audit and tax fees payable
   
12,661
 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
1,998
 
Total Liabilities
   
139,716
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
3,017,272
 
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF
       
Paid-in capital
 
$
3,187,476
 
Accumulated net investment loss
   
(18,927
)
Accumulated net realized loss on investments
   
(539,955
)
Net unrealized appreciation on investments
   
388,678
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
3,017,272
 
         
PRICING OF SHARES
       
Net Asset Value, offering and redemption price per share
 
$
9.74
 
Net Assets
 
$
3,017,272
 
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding (unlimited number of shares, no par value common stock authorized)
   
309,630
 

See Notes to Financial Statements.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
7

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Statement of Operations

 
INVESTMENT INCOME
     
Dividends
 
$
9,787
 
Total Investment Income
   
9,787
 
         
EXPENSES
       
Investment advisory fees (Note 6)
   
15,025
 
Administrative and transfer agency fees
   
85,627
 
Legal fees
   
5,375
 
Audit and tax fees
   
9,161
 
Reports to shareholders and printing fees
   
915
 
Insurance fees
   
175
 
Custody fees
   
2,500
 
Chief Compliance Officer Fees
   
10,000
 
Trustees' fees and expenses
   
414
 
State registration fees
   
10,284
 
Miscellaneous expenses
   
3,794
 
Total Expenses
   
143,270
 
Less fees waived/reimbursed by investment advisor (Note 6)
   
(126,664
)
Net Expenses
   
16,606
 
NET INVESTMENT LOSS
   
(6,819
)
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS:
       
Net realized loss on investments
   
(345,884
)
Net change in unrealized appreciation on investments
   
178,993
 
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED LOSS ON INVESTMENTS
   
(166,891
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(173,710
)

See Notes to Financial Statements.
 

8
www.cuppsfunds.com

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 
   
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment loss
 
$
(6,819
)
 
$
(17,809
)
Net realized loss on investments
   
(345,884
)
   
(186,937
)
Net change in unrealized appreciation on investments
   
178,993
     
214,023
 
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations
   
(173,710
)
   
9,277
 
                 
BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS (NOTE 5):
               
Shares sold
   
268,365
     
2,721,519
 
Shares redeemed
   
(195,000
)
   
(374,676
)
Net increase from beneficial share transactions
   
73,365
     
2,346,843
 
                 
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets
   
(100,345
)
   
2,356,120
 
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
3,117,617
     
761,497
 
End of period (Including accumulated net investment loss of $(18,927) and $(12,108))
 
$
3,017,272
   
$
3,117,617
 

See Notes to Financial Statements.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
9

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Financial Highlights

 
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented

 
 
For the
Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2014(a)
 
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
10.23
   
$
9.83
   
$
10.00
 
 
                       
INCOME/(LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS:
 
Net investment loss(b)
   
(0.02
)
   
(0.08
)
   
(0.01
)
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments 
   
(0.47
)
   
0.48
     
(0.16
)
Total from investment operations
   
(0.49
)
   
0.40
     
(0.17
)
 
                       
NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSET VALUE
   
(0.49
)
   
0.40
     
(0.17
)
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD
 
$
9.74
   
$
10.23
   
$
9.83
 
TOTAL RETURN(c)
   
(4.79
%)
   
4.07
%
   
(1.70
%)
 
                       
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
 
Net assets, end of period (000s)
 
$
3,017
   
$
3,118
   
$
761
 
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
                       
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
9.06
%(d)
   
12.51
%
   
106.03
%(d)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
1.05
%(d)
   
1.05
%
   
1.05
%(d)
Net investment loss including reimbursement/waiver
   
(0.43%
)(d)
   
(0.73
%)
   
(0.62%
)(d)
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE(e)
   
91
%
   
167
%
   
25
%
 
(a) Commenced operations on July 1, 2014.
(b) Calculated using the average shares method.
(c) Total returns are for the period indicated and have not been annualized. Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived during the period. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(d) Annualized.
(e) Portfolio turnover rate for periods less than one full year have not been annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.
 

10
www.cuppsfunds.com

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

 
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 
ALPS Series Trust (the “Trust”), a Delaware statutory trust, is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). As of March 31, 2016, the Trust had 8 registered funds. This semi-annual report describes the Cupps All Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”). The Fund’s primary investment objective is to achieve growth of capital over the long term. The Fund currently offers Institutional Class shares. The Board of Trustees (the “Board”) may establish additional funds and classes of shares at any time in the future without shareholder approval.
 
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 
The accompanying financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for investment companies (“U.S. GAAP”). The Fund is considered an investment company for financial reporting purposes. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in preparation of its financial statements.
 
Investment Valuation: The Fund generally values its securities based on market prices determined at the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, on each day the NYSE is open for trading.
 
Securities traded on a registered U.S. securities exchange (including exchange-traded derivatives other than futures and futures options) are valued based on the last sale price of the security reported on the principal exchange on which it is traded, prior to the time when the Fund’s assets are valued. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, or if such closing prices are not otherwise available, the securities are valued at the mean of the most recent bid and ask prices on such day.
 
Redeemable securities issued by open-end registered investment companies are valued at the investment company’s applicable net asset value, with the exception of exchange-traded open-end investment companies, which are priced as equity securities.
 
When such prices or quotations are not available, or when the Fair Value Committee appointed by the Board believes that they are unreliable, securities may be priced using fair value procedures approved by the Board.
 
Fair Value Measurements: The Fund discloses the classification of its fair value measurements following a three-tier hierarchy based on the inputs used to measure fair value. Inputs refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity. Unobservable inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on the best information available.
 
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments as of the end of the reporting period. When inputs used fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the hierarchy within which the fair value measurement falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The designated input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with these investments. These inputs are categorized in the following hierarchy under applicable financial accounting standards:
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical investments, unrestricted assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access at the measurement date;
 
Level 2 –
Quoted prices which are not active, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable (either directly or indirectly) for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; and

Level 3 –
Significant unobservable prices or inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments) where there is little or no market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
11

Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

 
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of March 31, 2016:

Investments in Securities at Value
 
Level 1 - Unadjusted Quoted Prices
   
Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs
   
Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs
   
Total
 
Common Stocks
                       
Basic Materials
 
$
68,725
   
$
   
$
   
$
68,725
 
Communications
   
693,898
     
     
     
693,898
 
Consumer, Cyclical
   
551,525
     
     
     
551,525
 
Consumer, Non-cyclical
   
639,218
     
     
     
639,218
 
Financial
   
167,084
     
     
     
167,084
 
Industrial
   
103,591
     
     
     
103,591
 
Technology
   
805,874
     
     
     
805,874
 
Short-Term Investments
   
1,514
     
     
     
1,514
 
TOTAL
 
$
3,031,429
   
$
   
$
   
$
3,031,429
 
 
The Fund recognizes transfers between levels as of the end of the period. For the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 securities. There were no Level 3 securities held during the period.
 
Trust Expenses: Some expenses of the Trust can be directly attributed to the Fund. Expenses that cannot be directly attributed to the Fund are apportioned among all funds in the Trust based on average net assets of each fund.
 
Federal Income Taxes: The Fund complies with the requirements under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies and intends to distribute substantially all of its net taxable income and net capital gains, if any, each year so that it will not be subject to excise tax on undistributed income and gains. The Fund is not subject to income taxes to the extent such distributions are made.
 
As of and during the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have a liability for any unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying financial statements. The Fund files U.S. federal, state and local income tax returns as required. The Fund’s tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant tax authorities until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years after the filing of the tax return for federal purposes and four years for most state returns. If applicable, the Fund’s administrator has analyzed the Fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state income tax returns for all open tax years and has concluded that as of March 31, 2016, no provision for income tax is required in the Fund’s financial statements related to these tax positions.
 
Investment Transactions and Investment Income: Investment transactions are accounted for on the date the investments are purchased or sold (trade date basis). Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are reported on an identified cost basis. Interest income, which includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is accrued and recorded as earned. Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date, or for certain foreign securities, as soon as information is available to the Fund.
 
Distributions to Shareholders: The Fund normally pays dividends, if any, and distributes capital gains, if any, on an annual basis. Income dividend distributions are derived from interest and other income the Fund receives from its investments, including short term capital gains. Long term capital gain distributions are derived from gains realized when the Fund sells a security it has owned for more than one year. The Fund may make additional distributions and dividends at other times if its portfolio manager or managers believes doing so may be necessary for the Fund to avoid or reduce taxes. Net investment income/(loss) and net realized gain/(loss) may differ for financial statement and tax purposes.
 
3. TAX BASIS INFORMATION

 
Tax Basis of Distributions to Shareholders: The character of distributions made during the period from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from its ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. Also, due to the timing of dividend distributions, the fiscal year in which amounts are distributed may differ from the fiscal year in which the income or realized gain were recorded by the Fund. The amounts and characteristics of tax basis distributions and composition of distributable earnings/(accumulated losses) are finalized at fiscal year-end. Accordingly, tax basis balances have not been determined as of the date of the semi-annual.
 
There were no distributions paid by the Fund for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015.
 

12
www.cuppsfunds.com


Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

 
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Unrealized Appreciation and Depreciation on Investments: As of March 31, 2016, the aggregate costs of investments, gross unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) and net unrealized appreciation for Federal tax purposes were as follows:
 
Gross unrealized appreciation (excess of value over tax cost)
 
$
351,001
 
Gross unrealized depreciation (excess of tax cost over value)
   
(27,165
)
Net unrealized appreciation
 
$
323,836
 
Cost of investments for income tax purposes
 
$
2,707,593
 
 
4. SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS

 
Purchases and sales of securities, excluding short-term securities, during the period ended March 31, 2016 were as follows:

   
Purchases of
Securities
   
Proceeds from
Sales of Securities
 
 
$
3,046,291
   
$
2,854,426
 
 
5. BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

 
The capitalization of the Trust consists of an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest with no par value per share. Holders of the shares of the Fund have one vote for each share held and a proportionate fraction of a vote for each fractional share. All shares issued and outstanding are fully paid and are transferable and redeemable at the option of the shareholder. Shares have no pre-emptive rights. Neither the Fund nor any of its creditors has the right to require shareholders to pay any additional amounts solely because the shareholder owns the shares.

Transactions in common shares were as follows:

   
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
 
Shares sold
   
25,138
     
261,926
 
Shares redeemed
   
(20,241
)
   
(34,684
)
Net increase in shares outstanding
   
4,897
     
227,242
 
 
Control is defined by the 1940 Act as the beneficial ownership, either directly or through one or more controlled companies, of more than 25% of the voting securities of a company. Approximately 87% of the shares outstanding are held within two omnibus accounts. Investment activities of these shareholders could have a material impact on the Fund.
 
6. MANAGEMENT AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 
Investment Advisory: Cupps Capital Management, LLC (“Cupps” or the “Adviser”), subject to the authority of the Board, is responsible for the overall management and administration of the Fund’s business affairs. The Adviser manages the investments of the Fund in accordance with the Fund’s investment objective, policies and limitations and investment guidelines established jointly by the Adviser and the Board.
 
Pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement (the “Advisory Agreement”) with the Adviser, the Fund pays the Adviser an annual management fee of 0.95% based on the Fund’s average daily net assets. The management fee is paid on a monthly basis. The initial term of the Advisory Agreement is two years. The Board may extend the Advisory Agreement for additional one-year terms. The Board and shareholders of the Fund may terminate the Advisory Agreement upon 30 days’ written notice. The Advisor may terminate the Advisory Agreement upon 60 days’ written notice.
 
Pursuant to a fee waiver letter agreement (the “Fee Waiver Agreement”), the Adviser has contractually agreed to limit the amount of the Fund’s Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses, exclusive of Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees, Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, brokerage expenses, interest expenses, taxes and extraordinary expenses, including, but not limited to, litigation expenses, Fund liquidation expenses and Fund reorganization expenses, to 1.05% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. The Fee Waiver Agreement is in effect through January 31, 2017. The Adviser will be permitted to recover expenses it has borne through the Fee Waiver Agreement to the extent that the Fund’s expenses in later periods fall below the annual rates set forth in the Fee Waiver Agreement. The Fund will not be obligated to pay any such deferred fees and expenses more than three years after the end of the fiscal year in which the fees and expense were deferred. The Adviser may not discontinue this waiver without the approval by the Trust's Board.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
13


Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

 
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
For the six-month period ended March 31, 2016, the fee waivers and/or reimbursements were $126,664.
 
As of September 30, 2015, the balance of recoupable expenses was $357,172, of which $78,806 expires in 2017 and $278,366 expires in 2018.
 
Administrator: ALPS Fund Services, Inc. (“ALPS”)(an affiliate of ALPS Distributors, Inc.) serves as administrator to the Fund. The Fund has agreed to pay expenses incurred in connection with its administrative activities. Pursuant to the Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement with the Trust, ALPS will provide operational services to the Fund including, but not limited to, fund accounting and fund administration and generally assist in the Fund’s operations. The Fund’s administration fee is accrued on a daily basis and paid monthly. The officers of the Trust are employees of ALPS. Administration fees paid by the Fund for the period ended March 31, 2016 are disclosed in the Statement of Operations. ALPS is reimbursed by the Fund for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 
Transfer Agent: ALPS serves as transfer agent for the Fund under a Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund plus fees for open accounts and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 
Compliance Services: ALPS provides services as the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer to monitor and test the policies and procedures of the Fund in conjunction with requirements under Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act pursuant to a Chief Compliance Officer Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 
Distribution: ALPS Distributors, Inc. (the “Distributor”) (an affiliate of ALPS) acts as the principal underwriter of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with the Trust. Shares of the Fund are offered on a continuous basis through the Distributor, as agent of the Fund. The Distributor is not obligated to sell any particular amount of shares and is not entitled to any compensation for its services as the Fund’s principal underwriter pursuant to the Distribution Agreement.
 
7. TRUSTEES

 
As of March 31, 2016, there were four Trustees, three of whom are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”). The Independent Trustees receive a quarterly retainer of $4,000, plus $2,000 for each regular Board or Committee meeting attended, $2,000 for each special telephonic Board or Committee meeting attended and $2,000 for each special in-person Board meeting attended. The Independent Trustees are also reimbursed for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at meetings and for meeting-related expenses. Officers of the Trust and Trustees who are interested persons of the Trust receive no salary or fees from the Trust.
 
8. INDEMNIFICATIONS

 
Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts with service providers that may contain general indemnification clauses which may permit indemnification to the extent permissible under applicable law. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred.
 

14
www.cuppsfunds.com


Cupps All Cap Growth Fund
Additional Information

 
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

1. PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND VOTING RECORD
 
A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge, upon request, (i) by calling the Fund (toll-free) at 1-855-674-4642 or (ii) on the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) at http://www.sec.gov.
 
Information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available (i) without charge, upon request, by calling the Fund (toll-free) at 1-855-674-4642 or (ii) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.
 
2. PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS

 
The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Forms N-Q are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C., and information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
15
 

 
 
 
Intentionally Left Blank
 
 



 

Table of Contents
 
Shareholder Letter
1
Portfolio Update
3
Disclosure of Fund Expenses
5
Portfolio of Investments
6
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
11
Statement of Operations
12
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
13
Financial Highlights
14
Notes to Financial Statements
17
Additional Information
23
 

DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Message from the President
Since my last letter in the fall of 2015, fixed income and equity market volatility has persisted. Continued concerns related to global economic activity, declining commodity prices, and divergent global monetary policies have all conspired to exacerbate market volatility. While several markets, including high yield bonds, produced gains over the past two quarters ending March 31, 2016, others, such as leveraged loans, experienced modest losses during these two quarters, as investors continued to reassess their risk/return profile and adjust accordingly.
 
Sustained weakness in global economic activity, coupled with a continued imbalance between supply and demand for commodities, resulted in a significant decline in commodity prices during the fourth quarter of 2015, a trend that carried over into the early stages of 2016. During this time period, a strong positive relationship existed between commodity prices, specifically oil, and the direction in which many markets traded. This correlation meant that when oil prices declined, many unrelated markets also declined, with the opposite holding true as well. Accordingly, as commodity prices began to stabilize in mid-February, markets recovered and produced strong returns for the first quarter of 2016. That being said, the current level of commodity prices will continue to exert pressure on the financial health of issuers in the Energy and Metals/Mining sectors in particular. As a result, it is expected that a meaningful number of issuers in these sectors will default on their fixed income payments owed during the coming year, pushing overall default rates higher. However, while the effect of declining commodity prices is undoubtedly negative for issuers in these two sectors, we continue to expect that many parts of the economy will benefit from lower product and consumer costs. Broadly speaking, credit fundamentals outside of these troubled sectors remain resilient.
 
In December 2015, the Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) raised the Federal Funds rate for the first time in almost nine years, signaling the beginning of a new interest rate cycle. In fact, at the time of the December 2015 hike, market participants had anticipated that 2016 would include a total of four interest rate hikes. However, it appears that the FOMC has become more attuned to economic data. Recent sluggishness in economic indicators in the U.S., coupled with weak growth abroad is giving the Committee pause with respect to its previous rate plans. As a result, most market participants now forecast only one rate hike in 2016. Interestingly, while the U.S. has begun its tightening cycle, albeit at what is expected to be a very measured pace, the rest of the world is resorting to further stimulus. Several central banks have announced negative interest rate policies and quantitative easing programs in an effort to jump start economic activity. These policy differences sparked a significant rally in the U.S. dollar, which many feared would crimp U.S. growth; however, any such effect has yet to materialize. For now, it appears as though central banks across the globe will continue to try and use monetary policy to spur growth without negatively affecting investor confidence. It is anyone’s guess as to the ultimate outcome of such an approach.
 
The Fund lagged the BofA Merrill Lynch U.S. High Yield Non-Financial Index for the six months ending March 31, 2016. This underperformance was primarily the result of the massive rally experienced by the high yield bond market during Q1 2016, which benefited the Fund but not to the same extent as the broader high yield market or the Fund’s benchmark. In fact, through February 11th, the date at which high yield spreads and yields peaked, the Fund was outperforming its benchmark significantly. However, since that time, commodity prices have rallied and high yield mutual funds have experienced record inflows (Exchange-Traded Funds, or “ETFs,” in particular). As a result, high yield bond prices increased significantly, notably for the larger, more liquid high yield bonds that the ETFs tend to be invested in as compared with the Fund. In addition, there was also a significant rally in CCC-rated high yield bonds during the period, principally among stressed/distressed credits in the Energy and Metals & Mining sectors. Although the Fund is overweight CCC-rated debt instruments generally, its exposure to stressed/distressed CCC-rated* bonds in these troubled sectors in particular has been kept to a minimum.
 
Typically, the high yield bonds and leveraged loans in which the Fund invests are less sensitive to movements in the broader high yield market, both when markets rally and when they sell-off. We seek to have the Fund invested in debt instruments that offer a yield premium to the market that we believe will ultimately lead to outperformance over time. As a result of this philosophy, DDJ understands that it may not realize the same benefit as the broader market during short term rallies, such as the one experienced in Q1 2016, and that the Fund’s performance may lag both the benchmark and its peers during such times.
 
DDJ recognizes that a market environment such as the one experienced over the past six months can be difficult for investors. At DDJ, we believe that the best way to navigate such volatile times is to remain focused on carefully monitoring the credits in which we invest in an effort to ensure that we are constructing a portfolio of high yield bonds and leveraged loans that offers a more attractive risk-versus-reward profile when compared to the broader high yield market. We thank you for your continued confidence in DDJ and appreciate your investment in the DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund.
 
Sincerely,
-S- David J. Breazzano
David J. Breazzano
President and Chief Investment Officer
DDJ Capital Management, LLC


Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
1

DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
The views and information discussed in this commentary are as of the date of publication, are subject to change, and may not reflect the writer’s current views. The views expressed are those of the Fund’s adviser only, and represent an assessment of market conditions at a specific point in time, are opinions only and should not be relied upon as investment advice regarding a particular investment or markets in general. Such information does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell specific securities or investment vehicles. It should not be assumed that any investment will be profitable or will equal the performance of the fund(s) or any securities or any sectors mentioned in this letter. The subject matter contained in this letter has been derived from several sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of compilation. Neither the Fund nor the Adviser accepts any liability for losses either direct or consequential caused by the use of this information.
 
*
A CCC/Caa rating by one of the nationally recognized statistical rating organizations (i.e. S&P, Moody’s or Fitch) implies a higher risk of default.
 
Not FDIC Insured – No Bank Guarantee – May Lose Value
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with DDJ Capital Management, LLC.
 

2
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DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Portfolio Update

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Performance (as of March 31, 2016)
 
 
3 Month
6 Month
Since Inception*
DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund - Institutional
2.50%
-0.03%
-1.80%
DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund – Class I
2.48%
-0.05%
-1.80%
DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund – Class II
2.42%
-0.17%
-1.97%
BofA ML U.S. High Yield Non-Financial Index(a)
3.54%
0.93%
-4.57%
 
The performance data quoted above represents past performance. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and value of the Fund shares will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Performance may be lower or higher than performance data quoted. Fund performance current to the most recent month-end is available by calling (844) 363-4898 or by visiting www.ddjfunds.com.
 
*
Fund’s inception date is July 16, 2015.
(a)
The BofA Merrill Lynch U.S. High Yield Non-Financial Index is a subset of The BofA Merrill Lynch US High Yield Index but that excludes all securities of financial issuers.
 
Returns of less than 1 year are cumulative.
 
Indices are not actively managed and do not reflect deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. An investor cannot invest directly in an index.
 
The returns shown above do not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or redemption of Fund shares.
 
The total annual operating expenses and total annual operating expenses after fee waivers and/or reimbursement you may pay as an investor in the Fund’s Institutional Class, Class I and Class II shares (as reported in the January 28, 2016 Prospectus) are 1.78% and 0.79%, 1.88% and 0.89% and 2.13% and 1.14%, respectively. The Fund’s investment adviser has contractually agreed to limit expenses through January 31, 2017.
 
The Fund is new and has a limited operating history.
 
Performance of $10,000 Initial Investment (as of March 31, 2016)
 
(LINE GRAPH)
 
The graph shown above represents historical performance of a hypothetical investment of $10,000 in the Fund since inception. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All returns reflect reinvested dividends, but do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.


Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
3

DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Portfolio Update

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Top Ten Holdings (as a % of Net Assets)*
 
HRG Group, Inc.
4.70%
US Foods, Inc.
4.45%
Physio-Control International, Inc., Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
3.95%
Serta Simmons Bedding LLC
3.67%
Sage Products Holdings III LLC, Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
3.65%
WMG Acquisition Corp.
3.11%
Nuance Communications, Inc.
2.90%
Ancestry.com, Inc. PIK
2.85%
AF Borrower LLC (Accuvant Finance LLC), Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
2.66%
Berlin Packaging LLC, Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
2.59%
Top Ten Holdings
34.53%
 
Portfolio Composition(as a % of Net Assets)*
 
(BAR CHART)
 

*
Holdings are subject to change, and may not reflect the current or future position of the portfolio. Tables present indicative values only.
 

4
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DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Disclosure of Fund Expenses

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Examples. As a shareholder of the DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund (the “Fund”), you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including applicable redemption fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees, distribution and service (12b-1) fees and other Fund expenses. The following examples are intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested on October 1, 2015 and held through March 31, 2016.
 
Actual Expenses. The first line under each class in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period October 1, 2015 – March 31, 2016” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during
this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes. The second line under each class in 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 mutual funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
 
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing Fund costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as redemption fees. Therefore, the second line under each class in 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 transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
 
 
Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2015
Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2016
Expense Ratio(a)
Expense Paid
During Period
October 1, 2015 -
March 31, 2016(b)
DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
       
Institutional
 
 
 
 
Actual
$1,000.00
$999.70
0.79%
$3.95
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,021.05
0.79%
$3.99
Class I
 
 
 
 
Actual
$1,000.00
$999.50
0.89%
$4.45
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,020.55
0.89%
$4.50
Class II
 
 
 
 
Actual
$1,000.00
$998.30
1.14%
$5.70
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.30
1.14%
$5.76
 
(a)
The Fund's expense ratios have been annualized based on the Fund's most recent fiscal half-year expenses after any applicable waivers and reimbursements.
(b)
Expenses are equal to the Fund's annualized expense ratio multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year (183), divided by 366.


Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
5

DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
COMMON STOCKS (0.85%)
           
Communications (0.85%)
           
Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc., Class A
   
16,000
   
$
75,200
 
 
               
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
               
(Cost $83,086)
           
75,200
 
 
               
 
 
Principal Amount
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
HIGH YIELD BONDS (53.64%)
               
Basic Materials (6.08%)
               
Century Aluminum Co.
               
7.500% 06/01/2021 (a)
 
$
275,000
   
$
204,875
 
Joseph T Ryerson & Son, Inc.
               
9.000% 10/15/2017
   
140,000
     
121,800
 
Mercer International, Inc.
               
7.750% 12/01/2022
   
90,000
     
90,113
 
Optima Specialty Sol
               
12.000% 12/30/2016 (b)
   
150,000
     
117,750
 
Total Basic Materials
           
534,538
 
 
               
Communications (7.73%)
               
Ancestry.com, Inc.
               
11.000% 12/15/2020
   
60,000
     
64,800
 
Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings, Inc., Series A
               
7.625% 03/15/2020
   
140,000
     
120,400
 
Level 3 Financing, Inc., Series WI
               
7.000% 06/01/2020
   
80,000
     
83,480
 
Qualitytech LP/QTS Finance Corp.
               
5.875% 08/01/2022
   
80,000
     
81,900
 
Sprint Communications, Inc.
               
8.375% 08/15/2017
   
170,000
     
168,513
 
9.125% 03/01/2017
   
10,000
     
10,225
 
Zayo Group LLC / Zayo Capital, Inc.
               
6.000% 04/01/2023
   
150,000
     
150,468
 
Total Communications
           
679,786
 
 
               
Consumer, Cyclical (10.93%)
               
1011778 BC ULC / New Red Finance, Inc.
               
6.000% 04/01/2022 (a)
   
150,000
     
156,375
 
99 Cents Only Stores LLC
               
11.000% 12/15/2019
   
40,000
     
15,800
 
First Cash Financial Services, Inc.
               
6.750% 04/01/2021
   
100,000
     
96,750
 
H&E Equipment Services, Inc.
               
7.000% 09/01/2022
   
40,000
     
40,800
 
Jo-Ann Stores LLC
               
8.125% 03/15/2019 (a)
   
60,000
     
55,500
 
Serta Simmons Bedding LLC
               
8.125% 10/01/2020 (a)
   
310,000
     
323,177
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

6
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DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Principal Amount
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Consumer, Cyclical (continued)
           
WMG Acquisition Corp.
           
6.750% 04/15/2022 (a)
 
$
275,000
   
$
273,625
 
Total Consumer, Cyclical
           
962,027
 
 
               
Consumer, Non-cyclical (12.68%)
               
Acadia Healthcare Co., Inc.
               
5.625% 02/15/2023
   
50,000
     
51,125
 
Ancestry.com, Inc. PIK
               
9.625% 10/15/2018 (a)
   
250,000
     
250,938
 
ConvaTec Healthcare SA
               
10.500% 12/15/2018 (a)
   
200,000
     
206,250
 
MPH Acquisition Holdings LLC
               
6.625% 04/01/2022 (a)
   
140,000
     
145,950
 
Opal Acquisition, Inc.
               
8.875% 12/15/2021 (a)
   
100,000
     
70,250
 
US Foods, Inc.
               
8.500% 06/30/2019
   
380,000
     
391,874
 
Total Consumer, Non-cyclical
           
1,116,387
 
 
               
Diversified (4.70%)
               
HRG Group, Inc.
               
7.750% 01/15/2022
   
415,000
     
413,444
 
Total Diversified
           
413,444
 
 
               
Energy (5.01%)
               
Continental Resources, Inc.
               
4.500% 04/15/2023
   
20,000
     
16,825
 
5.000% 09/15/2022
   
30,000
     
26,006
 
Forum Energy Technologies, Inc., Series WI
               
6.250% 10/01/2021
   
100,000
     
86,500
 
Newfield Exploration Co.
               
5.375% 01/01/2026
   
10,000
     
9,150
 
Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC
               
5.625% 02/01/2021
   
150,000
     
144,938
 
Teine Energy Ltd.
               
6.875% 09/30/2022 (a)
   
10,000
     
8,950
 
WPX Energy, Inc.
               
5.250% 01/15/2017
   
150,000
     
148,500
 
Total Energy
           
440,869
 
 
               
Industrials (3.61%)
               
Cleaver-Brooks, Inc.
               
8.750% 12/15/2019 (a)
   
230,000
     
218,500
 
Shale-Inland Holdings LLC
               
8.750% 11/15/2019 (a)
   
30,000
     
18,675
 
TransDigm, Inc., Series WI
               
5.500% 10/15/2020
   
80,000
     
80,640
 
Total Industrials
           
317,815
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
7

DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Principal Amount
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Technology (2.90%)
           
Nuance Communications, Inc.
           
5.375% 08/15/2020 (a)
 
$
250,000
   
$
254,844
 
Total Technology
           
254,844
 
 
               
TOTAL HIGH YIELD BONDS
               
(Cost $4,751,822)
           
4,719,710
 
 
               
SENIOR BANK LOANS (32.76%)
               
Communications (3.21%)
               
AF Borrower LLC (Accuvant Finance LLC), Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
10.000% 01/30/2023
   
250,000
     
234,375
 
LTS Buyer LLC (Sidera Networks, Inc.), Initial Term Loan B-1 (Second Lien)
               
8.000% 04/12/2021
   
50,000
     
48,167
 
Total Communications
           
282,542
 
 
               
Consumer, Cyclical (5.62%)
               
99 Cents Only Stores, Tranche B-2 Loan
               
4.500% 01/11/2019
   
9,949
     
6,815
 
Equinox Holdings, Inc., Initial Loan (Second Lien)
               
9.750% 07/31/2020
   
100,000
     
100,000
 
Genoa Healthcare, Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
8.750% 04/28/2023 (b)
   
9,375
     
9,281
 
LSF9 Cypress Holdings LLC, Junior Lien Term Loan
               
11.500% 10/09/2023 (b)
   
60,000
     
56,700
 
National Vision, Inc., Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
6.750% 03/11/2022
   
250,000
     
227,500
 
Parq Holdings Ltd., Closing Date Term Loan (First Lien)
               
8.500% 12/17/2020
   
100,317
     
94,047
 
Total Consumer, Cyclical
           
494,343
 
 
               
Consumer, Non-cyclical (16.15%)
               
Bioscrip, Inc., Delayed Draw Term Loan
               
6.500% 07/31/2020
   
36,948
     
33,376
 
Bioscrip, Inc., Initial Term Loan B
               
6.500% 07/31/2020
   
61,580
     
55,627
 
Concentra, Inc., Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
9.000% 06/01/2023
   
40,000
     
39,200
 
Heartland Dental Care LLC, Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
9.750% 06/21/2019
   
200,000
     
183,000
 
Lanai Holdings III, Inc., Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
8.750% 08/28/2023
   
90,000
     
88,200
 
Milk Specialties Co., Initial Term Loan
               
8.250% 11/09/2018
   
131,653
     
131,900
 
Physio-Control International, Inc., Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
10.000% 06/05/2023
   
340,000
     
347,225
 
Sage Products Holdings III LLC, Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
9.250% 06/13/2020
   
320,000
     
321,202
 
U.S. Renal Care, Inc., Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
9.000% 12/29/2023
   
140,000
     
138,250
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

8
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DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Principal Amount
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Consumer, Non-cyclical (continued)
           
WIS International, Loan (Second Lien)
           
10.250% 06/20/2019
 
$
100,000
   
$
82,500
 
Total Consumer, Non-cyclical
           
1,420,480
 
 
               
Financials (1.50%)
               
Asurion LLC (Asurion Corp.), Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
8.500% 03/03/2021
   
30,000
     
28,275
 
Cotiviti Corp. (Connolly Intermediate, Inc.), Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
8.000% 05/13/2022
   
110,000
     
104,042
 
Total Financials
           
132,317
 
 
               
Industrials (5.90%)
               
Berlin Packaging LLC, Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
7.750% 09/30/2022
   
250,000
     
227,500
 
CPM Acquisition Corp. (Crown Acquisition Corp.), Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
10.250% 04/10/2023
   
130,000
     
123,500
 
Lully Finance S.A R.L. (Lully Finance LLC), Initial Term B-1 Loan (Second Lien)
               
9.500% 10/16/2023
   
40,000
     
37,400
 
Tower Development Corp, Term Loan (First Lien)
               
6.107% 01/02/2017 (b)
   
99,250
     
99,250
 
UTEX Industries, Inc., Initial Loan (Second Lien)
               
8.250% 05/20/2022
   
70,000
     
31,733
 
Total Industrials
           
519,383
 
 
               
Technology (0.38%)
               
Evergreen Skills Lux S.A R.L., Initial Term Loan (Second Lien)
               
9.250% 04/28/2022
   
70,000
     
33,250
 
Total Technology
           
33,250
 
 
               
TOTAL SENIOR BANK LOANS
               
(Cost $3,034,230)
           
2,882,315
 
 
               
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (87.25%)
               
(Cost $7,869,138)
         
$
7,677,225
 
 
               
Other Assets In Excess Of Liabilities (12.75%)
           
1,121,392
 
 
               
NET ASSETS (100.00%)
         
$
8,798,617
 
 
(a)
Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. This security may be resold in transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. As of March 31, 2016, the market value of securities restricted under Rule 144A was $2,187,909, representing 24.87% of the Fund's net assets. These securities have been determined to be liquid pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board.
(b)
Fair valued security under the procedures approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees.
 
Common Abbreviations:
 
 
LLC - Limited Liability Company.
LP - Limited Partnership.
Ltd. - Limited.
PIK - Payment-in-kind.
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
9

DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
For Fund compliance purposes, the Fund's industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indices or ratings group indices, and/or as defined by Fund's management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease. Industries are shown as a percentage of the Fund's net assets. (Unaudited)
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

10
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DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Statement of Assets and Liabilities

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments, at value (Cost $7,869,138)
 
$
7,677,225
 
Cash and cash equivalents
   
979,991
 
Receivable for investments sold
   
26
 
Interest receivable
   
158,525
 
Receivable due from advisor
   
24,870
 
Prepaid offering costs
   
28,641
 
Prepaid expenses
   
6,269
 
Total Assets
   
8,875,547
 
         
LIABILITIES:
 
Payable for investments purchased
   
14,173
 
Payable for administration and transfer agency fees
   
33,051
 
Payable for distribution and services fees
   
163
 
Trustees' fees and expenses payable
   
193
 
Payable to Chief Compliance Officer
   
3,331
 
Payable for legal fees
   
6,266
 
Payable for audit and tax fees
   
15,584
 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
4,169
 
Total Liabilities
   
76,930
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
8,798,617
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:
 
Paid-in capital (Note 5)
 
$
9,048,122
 
Accumulated net investment income
   
33,266
 
Accumulated net realized loss on investments
   
(90,858
)
Net unrealized depreciation on investments
   
(191,913
)
NET ASSETS
 
$
8,798,617
 
         
PRICING OF SHARES
       
Institutional:
       
Net Asset Value, offering and redemption price per share
 
$
9.43
 
Net Assets
 
$
8,101,365
 
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding
   
859,183
 
Class I:
       
Net Asset Value, offering and redemption price per share
 
$
9.42
 
Net Assets
 
$
599,269
 
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding
   
63,616
 
Class II:
       
Net Asset Value, offering and redemption price per share
 
$
9.42
 
Net Assets
 
$
97,983
 
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding
   
10,406
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 11

DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Statement of Operations

For the Period Ended March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Interest income
 
$
246,577
 
Dividends
   
23,899
 
Total Investment Income
   
270,476
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (Note 6)
   
22,553
 
Administrative and transfer agency fees
   
88,700
 
Distribution and service fees
       
Class I
   
53
 
Class II
   
169
 
Legal fees
   
5,305
 
Audit and tax fees
   
12,084
 
Printing fees
   
940
 
Registration fees
   
4,850
 
Insurance fees
   
55
 
Custody fees
   
1,375
 
Trustees' fees and expenses
   
458
 
Chief Compliance Officer fees
   
9,998
 
Offering costs
   
45,019
 
Other expenses
   
3,887
 
Total Expenses
   
195,446
 
Less fees waived/reimbursed by investment advisor (Note 6)
       
Institutional Class
   
(163,211
)
Class I
   
(3,500
)
Class II
   
(3,062
)
Net Expenses
   
25,673
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
   
244,803
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED LOSS ON INVESTMENTS:
       
Net realized loss on:
       
Investments
   
(90,592
)
Net realized loss
   
(90,592
)
         
Net Change in unrealized depreciation on:
       
Investments
   
(113,287
)
Net Change
   
(113,287
)
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED LOSS ON INVESTMENTS
   
(203,879
)
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
40,924
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

12
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DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 
   
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016(Unaudited)
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2015(a)
 
OPERATIONS:
 
Net investment income
 
$
244,803
   
$
23,434
 
Net realized loss on investments
   
(90,592
)
   
(266
)
Net change in unrealized depreciation on investments
   
(113,287
)
   
(78,626
)
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations
   
40,924
     
(55,458
)
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
 
Dividends to shareholders from net investment income
               
Institutional
   
(209,261
)
   
(18,899
)
Class I
   
(3,367
)
   
(648
)
Class II
   
(3,246
)
   
(599
)
Total distributions
   
(215,874
)
   
(20,146
)
                 
BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS (NOTE 5):
 
Institutional
               
Shares sold
   
5,140,154
     
3,020,010
 
Dividends reinvested
   
162,258
     
18,899
 
Shares redeemed
   
(10
)
   
 
Net Increase from beneficial share transactions
   
5,302,402
     
3,038,909
 
                 
Class I
               
Shares sold
   
500,000
     
100,000
 
Dividends reinvested
   
3,367
     
648
 
Net Increase from beneficial share transactions
   
503,367
     
100,648
 
                 
Class II
               
Shares sold
   
     
100,000
 
Dividends reinvested
   
3,246
     
599
 
Net Increase from beneficial share transactions
   
3,246
     
100,599
 
                 
Net increase in net assets
   
5,634,065
     
3,164,552
 
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
3,164,552
     
 
End of period (Including accumulated net investment income of $33,266 and $4,337)
 
$
8,798,617
   
$
3,164,552
 
 
(a)
Commenced operations on July 17, 2015.
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 13

DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Financial Highlights

Institutional Class
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
 
 
 
 
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2015(a)
 
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
9.76
   
$
10.00
 
                 
INCOME/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
 
Net investment income(b)
   
0.35
     
0.08
 
Net realized and unrealized loss on investments
   
(0.36
)
   
(0.26
)
Total from investment operations
   
(0.01
)
   
(0.18
)
                 
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
               
From net investment income
   
(0.32
)
   
(0.06
)
Total distributions
   
(0.32
)
   
(0.06
)
                 
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSET VALUE
   
(0.33
)
   
(0.24
)
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD
 
$
9.43
   
$
9.76
 
                 
TOTAL RETURN(c)
   
(0.03
)%
   
(1.77
)%
                 
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
               
Net assets, end of period (000s)
 
$
8,101
   
$
2,968
 
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
               
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
6.02
%(d)
   
14.66
%(d)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
0.79
%(d)
   
0.79
%(d)
Net investment income including reimbursement/waiver
   
7.60
%(d)
   
3.71
%(d)
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE(e)
   
11
%
   
4
%

(a) Commenced operations on July 17, 2015.
(b) Calculated using the average shares method.
(c) Total returns are for the period indicated and have not been annualized.  Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived during the period.  Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(d) Annualized.
(e) Portfolio turnover rate for periods less than one full year have not been annualized.
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

14
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DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Financial Highlights

Class I
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
 
   
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2015(a)
 
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
9.76
   
$
10.00
 
                 
INCOME/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
 
Net investment income(b)
   
0.38
     
0.07
 
Net realized and unrealized loss on investments
   
(0.39
)
   
(0.24
)
Total from investment operations
   
(0.01
)
   
(0.17
)
                 
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
               
From net investment income
   
(0.33
)
   
(0.07
)
Total distributions
   
(0.33
)
   
(0.07
)
                 
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSET VALUE
   
(0.34
)
   
(0.24
)
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD
 
$
9.42
   
$
9.76
 
                 
TOTAL RETURN(c)
   
(0.05
)%
   
(1.76
)%
                 
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
               
Net assets, end of period (000s)
 
$
599
   
$
98
 
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
               
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
7.58
%(d)
   
14.74
%(d)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
0.89
%(d)
   
0.89
%(d)
Net investment income including reimbursement/waiver
   
8.18
%(d)
   
3.47
%(d)
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE(e)
   
11
%
   
4
%

(a) Commenced operations on July 17, 2015.
(b) Calculated using the average shares method.
(c) Total returns are for the period indicated and have not been annualized.  Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived during the period.  Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(d) Annualized.
(e) Portfolio turnover rate for periods less than one full year have not been annualized.
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 15

DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Financial Highlights

Class II
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
 
   
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2015(a)
 
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
9.76
   
$
10.00
 
                 
INCOME/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS:
 
Net investment income(b)
   
0.34
     
0.07
 
Net realized and unrealized loss on investments
   
(0.36
)
   
(0.25
)
Total from investment operations
   
(0.02
)
   
(0.18
)
                 
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
               
From net investment income
   
(0.32
)
   
(0.06
)
Total distributions
   
(0.32
)
   
(0.06
)
                 
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSET VALUE
   
(0.34
)
   
(0.24
)
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD
 
$
9.42
   
$
9.76
 
                 
TOTAL RETURN(c)
   
(0.17
)%
   
(1.80
)%
                 
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
               
Net assets, end of period (000s)
 
$
98
   
$
98
 
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
               
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
7.49
%(d)
   
14.99
%(d)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
1.14
%(d)
   
1.14
%(d)
Net investment income including reimbursement/waiver
   
7.13
%(d)
   
3.22
%(d)
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE(e)
   
11
%
   
4
%
 
(a) Commenced operations on July 17, 2015.
(b) Calculated using the average shares method.
(c) Total returns are for the period indicated and have not been annualized.  Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived during the period.  Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(d) Annualized.
(e) Portfolio turnover rate for periods less than one full year have not been annualized.
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

16
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DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
1. ORGANIZATION

ALPS Series Trust (the “Trust”), a Delaware statutory trust, is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). As of March 31, 2016, the Trust had 8 registered funds. This semi-annual report describes the DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund (the “Fund”). The Fund’s primary investment objective is overall total return consisting of a high level of current income together with long-term capital appreciation. The Fund currently offers Class I shares, Class II shares and Institutional Class shares. Each share class has identical rights to earnings, assets and voting privileges, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. The Board of Trustees (the “Board”) may establish additional funds and classes of shares at any time in the future without shareholder approval.

As a newly organized entity, the Fund has little operating history. The Fund does not have any operations before July 17, 2015 other than those relating to the sale and issuance of the Fund’s initial Class I shares, Class II shares and Institutional Class shares to ALPS Fund Services, Inc. (“ALPS”), the Fund’s administrator and transfer agent. ALPS is an affiliate of ALPS Distributors, Inc., the Fund’s principal underwriter.

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The accompanying financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for investment companies (“U.S. GAAP”). The Fund is considered an investment company for financial reporting purposes. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in preparation of its financial statements.

Investment Valuation: The Fund generally values its securities based on market prices determined at the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, on each day the NYSE is open for trading.

For equity securities and mutual funds that are traded on an exchange, the market price is usually the closing sale or official closing price on that exchange. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, or if such closing prices are not otherwise available, the securities are valued at the mean of the most recent bid and ask prices on such day.

The market price for debt obligations is generally the price supplied by an independent third-party pricing service approved by the Board, which may use a matrix, formula or other objective method that takes into consideration quotations from dealers, market transactions in comparable investments, market indices and yield curves. If vendors are unable to supply a price, or if the price supplied is deemed to be unreliable, the market price may be determined using quotations received from one or more brokers-dealers that make a market in the security. Investments in non-exchange traded funds are fair valued at their respective net asset values.

Loans are primarily valued by using a composite loan price from a nationally recognized loan pricing service. The methodology used by the Funds’ nationally recognized loan pricing provider for composite loan prices is to value loans at the mean of the bid and ask prices from one or more brokers or dealers.

Redeemable securities issued by open-end registered investment companies are valued at the investment company’s applicable net asset value, with the exception of exchange-traded open-end investment companies, which are priced as equity securities.

When such prices or quotations are not available, or when the Fair Value Committee appointed by the Board believes that they are unreliable, securities may be priced using fair value procedures approved by the Board.

Fair Value Measurements: The Fund discloses the classification of its fair value measurements following a three-tier hierarchy based on the inputs used to measure fair value. Inputs refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity. Unobservable inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on the best information available.

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments as of the end of the reporting period. When inputs used fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the hierarchy within which the fair value measurement falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The designated input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with these investments. These inputs are categorized in the following hierarchy under applicable financial
accounting standards:
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 17

 
DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical investments, unrestricted assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access at the measurement date;
 
Level 2 – Quoted prices which are not active, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable (either directly or indirectly) for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; and
 
Level 3 – Significant unobservable prices or inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments) where there is little or no market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date.
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of March 31, 2016:
 
Investments in Securities at Value
 
Level 1 - Unadjusted Quoted Prices
   
Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs
   
Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs
   
Total
 
Common Stocks
                       
Communications
 
$
75,200
   
$
   
$
   
$
75,200
 
High Yield Bonds
                               
Basic Materials
   
     
416,788
     
117,750
     
534,538
 
Communications
   
     
679,786
     
     
679,786
 
Consumer, Cyclical
   
     
962,027
     
     
962,027
 
Consumer, Non-cyclical
   
     
1,116,387
     
     
1,116,387
 
Diversified
   
     
413,444
     
     
413,444
 
Energy
   
     
440,869
     
     
440,869
 
Industrials
   
     
317,815
     
     
317,815
 
Technology
   
     
254,844
     
     
254,844
 
Senior Bank Loans
                               
Communications
   
     
282,542
     
     
282,542
 
Consumer, Cyclical
   
     
334,315
     
160,028
     
494,343
 
Consumer, Non-cyclical
   
     
719,555
     
700,925
     
1,420,480
 
Financials
   
     
132,317
     
     
132,317
 
Industrials
   
     
259,233
     
260,150
     
519,383
 
Technology
   
     
     
33,250
     
33,250
 
TOTAL
 
$
75,200
   
$
6,329,922
   
$
1,272,103
   
$
7,677,225
 
 
The Fund recognizes transfers between levels as of the end of the period. For the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 securities. The following is a reconciliation of assets in which Level 3 inputs were used in determining the value:
 
DDJ Opportunistic High Yield
 
High Yield Bonds
   
Senior Bank Loans
   
Total
 
Balance as of September 30, 2015
 
$
   
$
199,846
   
$
199,846
 
Accrued discount
   
     
1,281
     
1,281
 
Return of Capital
   
     
     
 
Realized Gain/(Loss)
   
     
1
     
1
 
Change in Unrealized Depreciation
   
(13,280
)
   
(61,772
)
   
(75,052
)
Purchases
   
131,030
     
630,623
     
761,653
 
Sales Proceeds
   
     
(250
)
   
(250
)
Transfer into Level 3
   
     
384,624
     
384,624
 
Transfer out of Level 3
   
     
     
 
Balance as of March 31, 2016
 
$
117,750
   
$
1,154,353
   
$
1,272,103
 
 

18
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DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Information about Level 3 measurements as of March 31, 2016:
 
 
 
Market Value
 
 Valuation Technique
Unobservable Input
DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
     
 
   
Assets
     
 
   
High Yield Bonds
 
$
117,750
 
Market Comparable Companies Analysis
Yield to Worst
Senior Bank Loans
   
165,231
 
Market Comparable Companies Analysis
Yield to Worst
Senior Bank Loans
   
989,122
 
Third-party Vendor Pricing Service
Vendor Quotes
 
Offering Costs: The Fund incurred offering costs during the period ended March 31, 2016. These offering costs, including fees for printing initial prospectuses, legal and registration fees, are being amortized over the first twelve months from the inception date of the Fund. Amounts amortized through March 31, 2016 are shown on the Fund’s Statement of Operations and amounts that remain to be amortized are shown on the Fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
 
Trust Expenses: Some expenses of the Trust can be directly attributed to the Fund. Expenses that cannot be directly attributed to the Fund are apportioned among all funds in the Trust based on average net assets of each fund.
 
Fund Expenses: Some expenses can be directly attributed to the Fund and are apportioned among the classes based on average net assets of each class.
 
Class Expenses: Expenses that are specific to a class of shares are charged directly to that share class. Fees provided under the distribution (Rule 12b-1) and/or shareholder service plans for a particular class of the Fund are charged to the operations of such class.
 
Federal Income Taxes: The Fund complies with the requirements under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies and intends to distribute substantially all of its net taxable income and net capital gains, if any, each year so that it will not be subject to excise tax on undistributed income and gains. The Fund is not subject to income taxes to the extent such distributions are made.
 
As of and during the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have a liability for any unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying financial statements. The Fund files U.S. federal, state and local income tax returns as required. The Fund’s tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant tax authorities until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years after the filing of the tax return for federal purposes and four years for most state returns. If applicable, the Fund’s administrator has analyzed the Fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state income tax returns for all open tax years and has concluded that as of March 31, 2016, no provision for income tax is required in the Fund’s financial statements related to these tax positions.
 
Investment Transactions and Investment Income: Investment transactions are accounted for on the date the investments are purchased or sold (trade date basis). Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are reported on an identified cost basis. Interest income, which includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is accrued and recorded as earned. Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date, or for certain foreign securities, as soon as information is available to the Fund. All of the realized and unrealized gains and losses and net investment income are allocated daily to each class in proportion to its average daily net assets.
 
Distributions to Shareholders: The Fund normally pays dividends, if any, monthly and distributes capital gains, if any, on an annual basis. Income dividend distributions are derived from interest and other income the Fund receives from its investments, including short term capital gains. Long term capital gain distributions are derived from gains realized when the Fund sells a security it has owned for more than one year. The Fund may make additional distributions and dividends at other times if its portfolio manager or managers believes doing so may be necessary for the Fund to avoid or reduce taxes. Net investment income/(loss) and net realized gain/(loss) may differ for financial statement and tax purposes.
 
Loan Assignments and Participations: The Fund may invest in loan assignments and participations. The Fund considers loan assignments and participations to be investments in debt securities. Loan participations typically will result in the Fund having a contractual relationship only with the lender, not with the underlying borrower. The Fund will have the right to receive payments of principal, interest and any fees to which it is entitled only from the lender selling the participation and only upon receipt by the lender of the payments from the borrower. Under a loan participation, the Fund generally will have no right to enforce compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement relating to the loan, nor any rights of set-off against the borrower, and the Fund may not benefit directly from any collateral supporting the loan in which it has purchased the participation. As a result, the Fund will assume the credit risk of both the borrower and the lender that is selling the participation. In the event of the insolvency of the lender selling a participation, the Fund may be treated as a general creditor of the lender and may not benefit from any set-off between the lender and the borrower. When the Fund purchases assignments of loans from lenders, unlike a participation, the Fund will acquire direct rights against the borrower on the loan except that under certain circumstances such rights may be more limited than those held by the assigning lender.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 19

DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
As of period end, the Fund held $2,882,315 or 32.76% in loan assignments.
 
3. TAX BASIS INFORMATION
 
Tax Basis of Distributions to Shareholders: The character of distributions made during the period from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from its ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. Also, due to the timing of dividend distributions, the fiscal year in which amounts are distributed may differ from the fiscal year in which the income or realized gain were recorded by the Fund. The amounts and characteristics of tax basis distributions and composition of distributable earnings/(accumulated losses) are finalized at fiscal year-end. Accordingly, tax basis balances have not been determined as of the date of the semi-annual.
 
The tax character of distributions paid by the Fund for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015 were as follows:
 
Fund
 
Ordinary
Income
   
Long-Term
Capital Gain
   
Return
of Capital
 
DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
 
$
20,146
   
$
   
$
 

Unrealized Appreciation and Depreciation on Investments: As of March 31, 2016, the aggregate costs of investments, gross unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) and net unrealized appreciation for Federal tax purposes were as follows:
 
Gross unrealized appreciation (excess of value over tax cost)
 
$
108,036
 
Gross unrealized depreciation (excess of tax cost over value)
   
(299,949
)
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
   
(191,913
)
Cost of investments for income tax purposes
 
$
7,869,138
 
 
4. SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of securities, excluding short-term securities, during the period ended March 31, 2016 were as follows:
 
 
 
Purchases of Securities
   
Proceeds from Sales of
Securities
 
 
 
$
5,693,841
   
$
551,989
 
 
5. BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS
 
The capitalization of the Trust consists of an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest with no par value per share. Holders of the shares of the Fund have one vote for each share held and a proportionate fraction of a vote for each fractional share. All shares issued and outstanding are fully paid and are transferable and redeemable at the option of the shareholder. Shares have no pre-emptive rights. Neither the Fund nor any of its creditors has the right to require shareholders to pay any additional amounts solely because the shareholder owns the shares.
 
Shares redeemed within 60 days of purchase may incur a 1.00% short-term redemption fee deducted from the redemption amount. For the period ended March 31, 2016, the redemption fees charged by the Fund, if any, are presented in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets.
 

20
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DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Transactions in common shares were as follows:
 
 
 
For the
Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2015(a)
 
Institutional
           
Shares sold
   
537,706
     
302,226
 
Dividends reinvested
   
17,329
     
1,923
 
Shares redeemed
   
(1
)
   
 
Net increase in shares outstanding
   
555,034
     
304,149
 
Class I
               
Shares sold
   
53,192
     
10,000
 
Dividends reinvested
   
358
     
66
 
Net increase in shares outstanding
   
53,550
     
10,066
 
Class II
               
Shares sold
   
     
10,000
 
Dividends reinvested
   
345
     
61
 
Net increase in shares outstanding
   
345
     
10,061
 
 
(a)
Commenced operations on July 17, 2015.
 
Control is defined by the 1940 Act as the beneficial ownership, either directly or through one or more controlled companies, of more than 25% of the voting securities of a company. Approximately 66% of the shares outstanding are held within two affiliated accounts and 25% within an unaffiliated account. Investment activities of these shareholders could have a material impact on the Fund.
 
6. MANAGEMENT AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 
Investment Advisory: DDJ Capital Management, LLC (“DDJ” or the “Adviser”), subject to the authority of the Board, is responsible for the overall management and administration of the Fund’s business affairs. The Adviser manages the investments of the Fund in accordance with the Fund’s investment objective, policies and limitations and investment guidelines established jointly by the Adviser and the Board.
 
Pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement (the “Advisory Agreement”) with the Adviser, the Fund pays the Adviser an annual management fee of 0.70% based on the Fund’s average daily net assets. The management fee is paid on a monthly basis. The initial term of the Advisory Agreement is two years. The Board may extend the Advisory Agreement for additional one-year terms. The Board and shareholders of the Fund may terminate the Advisory Agreement upon 30 days’ written notice. The Adviser may terminate the Advisory Agreement upon 60 days’ written notice.
 
Pursuant to a fee waiver letter agreement (the “Fee Waiver Agreement”), the Adviser has contractually agreed to limit the amount of the Fund’s Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses, exclusive of Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees, Shareholder Servicing expenses, brokerage expenses, interest expenses, taxes and extraordinary expenses, to 0.79% of the Fund’s average daily net assets of each of the Institutional Class, Class I and Class II shares. The Fee Waiver Agreement is in effect through January 31, 2017. The Adviser will be permitted to recover, on a class-by-class basis, expenses it has borne through the Fee Waiver Agreement to the extent that the Fund’s expenses in later periods fall below the annual rates set forth in the Fee Waiver Agreement. The Fund will not be obligated to pay any such deferred fees and expenses more than three years after the end of the fiscal year in which the fees and expense were deferred. The Adviser may not discontinue this waiver without the approval by the Trust's Board.
 
For the six-month period ended March 31, 2016, the fee waivers and/or reimbursements were $163,211, $3,500 and $3,062 for the Institutional Class, Class I shares and Class II shares, respectively. This includes waived advisory fees of $21,816, $401 and $336, respectively.
 
As of September 30, 2015, the balances of recoupable expenses for each class were as follows:
 
Fund
 
Expiring in 2016
   
Expiring in 2017
   
Expiring in 2018
 
DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund - Institutional
 
$
   
$
   
$
(82,371
)
DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund - I
   
     
     
(2,863
)
DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund - II
   
     
     
(2,862
)
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 21

DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Administrator: ALPS Fund Services, Inc. (“ALPS”) (an affiliate of ALPS Distributors, Inc.) serves as administrator to the Fund. The Fund has agreed to pay expenses incurred in connection with its administrative activities. Pursuant to the Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement with the Trust, ALPS will provide operational services to the Fund including, but not limited to, fund accounting and fund administration and generally assist in the Fund’s operations. The Fund’s administration fee is accrued on a daily basis and paid monthly. The officers of the Trust are employees of ALPS. Administration fees paid by the Fund for the fiscal period ended March 31, 2016 are disclosed in the Statement of Operations.
 
ALPS is reimbursed by the Fund for certain out of pocket expenses.
 
Transfer Agent: ALPS serves as transfer agent for the Fund under a Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund plus fees for open accounts and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 
Compliance Services: ALPS provides services as the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer to monitor and test the policies and procedures of the Fund in conjunction with requirements under Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act pursuant to a Chief Compliance Officer Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 
Distribution: ALPS Distributors, Inc. (the “Distributor”) (an affiliate of ALPS) acts as the principal underwriter of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with the Trust. Shares of the Fund are offered on a continuous basis through the Distributor, as agent of the Fund. The Distributor is not obligated to sell any particular amount of shares and is not entitled to any compensation for its services as the Fund’s principal underwriter pursuant to the Distribution Agreement.
 
The Fund has adopted a Distribution and Services Plan (the “Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act for its Class II shares. The Plan allows the Fund to use Class II assets to pay fees in connection with the distribution and marketing of Class II shares and/or the provision of shareholder services to Class II shareholders. The Plan permits payment for services in connection with the administration of plans or programs that use Class II shares of the Fund, if any, as their funding medium and for related expenses. The Plan permits the Fund to make total payments at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to its Class II shares. Because these fees are paid out of the Fund’s Class II assets, if any, on an ongoing basis, over time they will increase the cost of an investment in the Class II shares, if any, and Class II Plan fees may cost an investor more than other types of sales charges. Plan fees are shown as distribution and service fees on the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a shareholder services plan (“Shareholder Services Plan”) with respect to the Fund’s Class I and Class II shares. Under the Shareholder Services Plan the Fund is authorized to pay banks and their affiliates and other institutions, including broker-dealers and Fund affiliates (“Participating Organizations”), an aggregate fee in an amount not to exceed on an annual basis 0.10% of the average daily net asset value of the Class I shares and Class II shares, respectively, attributable to or held in the name of a Participating Organization for its clients as compensation for providing shareholder service activities, which do not include distribution services, pursuant to an agreement with a Participating Organization. Shareholder Services plan fees are included with distribution and service fees on the Statements of Operations.
 
7. TRUSTEES
 
As of March 31, 2016, there were four Trustees, three of whom are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”). The Independent Trustees receive a quarterly retainer of $4,000, plus $2,000 for each regular Board or Committee meeting attended, $2,000 for each special telephonic Board or Committee meeting attended and $2,000 for each special in-person Board meeting attended. The Independent Trustees are also reimbursed for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at meetings and for meeting-related expenses. Officers of the Trust and Trustees who are interested persons of the Trust receive no salary or fees from the Trust.
 
8. INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts with service providers that may contain general indemnification clauses which may permit indemnification to the extent permissible under applicable law. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred.
 

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DDJ Opportunistic High Yield Fund
Additional Information

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
1. PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND VOTING RECORD
 
A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge, upon request, (i) by calling the Fund (toll-free) at 1-844-363-4898 or (ii) on the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.
 
Information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available (i) without charge, upon request, by calling the Fund (toll-free) at 1-844-363-4898 or (ii) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.
 
2. PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
 
The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Forms N-Q are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C., and information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 23

 
 
 
Intentionally Left Blank
 
 
 

 
 
 
Intentionally Left Blank
 
 
 

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
Shareholder Letter
1
Portfolio Update
5
Disclosure of Fund Expenses
7
Portfolio of Investments
8
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
13
Statement of Operations
14
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
15
Financial Highlights
16
Notes to Financial Statements
18
Additional Information
29
 

GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Dear Shareholder,
 
The past six months have been a wild ride for Asian investors. Markets have gone from despair to optimism and back again, only to wind up roughly where they started. This treadmill of volatility is surely leaving many investors feeling like the mythological Sisyphus who was condemned to endlessly roll a boulder up a hill – never really getting further than where he started. During this period the GaveKal-Evergreen Asian Opportunities Fund fell -0.5% in USD terms against the benchmark which rose +5.1%. The primary reason for this underperformance came from the Fund’s overweight position in China which subtracted nearly -3.0% of relative return against the benchmark. Though the returns have been somewhat disappointing, our view that markets would remain volatile has been correct, helping us to avoid much of the turbulence in markets. Indeed, the annualized daily standard deviation of the Fund has been 11.8%, as compared with 19.3% for the market.
 
As we think about the rest of 2016, we believe the most important question is whether, after years of underperformance, the recent rise of Emerging Markets (EMs) will continue. We believe a continued rally depends on three factors: (1) rising commodity prices, (2) improving liquidity conditions and (3) stronger nominal economic growth. Weighing these factors, we judge that a continued broad-based rally in EMs is very unlikely. Commodity prices will be restrained and economic growth tepid. A less strong US Dollar seems likely, and will help, but won’t be a panacea. We are optimistic about certain markets like China and India, just not all EMs. In this semi-annual newsletter we will go through each of these three factors and explain why we believe the rally in EMs will ultimately be fleeting.
 
The recent rally in EMs began in mid-February, concurrent with oil and commodity prices bottoming. This should not come as surprising; economic sensitivity to commodities for EMs remains high, especially in South America. So while positive correlation with commodity prices may have been great in the past cycle, in this cycle it won’t be. And this cycle may be long lasting. Slowly shifting supply response tends to create commodity cycles that last decades and predictably move from undersupply to oversupply. The build-up in supply we have witnessed over the past decade is surely on-par with past busts and demand may take another five to ten years to catch up.
 
The second aspect important to EM asset prices is the overall liquidity environment. EM liquidity can either come from domestic sources or from abroad through the current and capital account. We know that domestically most EM banks are retrenching and so we don’t expect much help from this channel. Meanwhile, liquidity from abroad often comes with a falling US Dollar. In this regard the outlook is slightly brighter. We believe the US Dollar has probably stopped rising and will follow a sideways path or slight decline from here. As evidence, witness the US current account which has moved into deficit again. Further, the panic buying which drove the US Dollar higher last December seems to be over. Undeniably the prospect of higher interest rates is likely, but we don’t think this will be enough to drive the US Dollar to new highs.
 
Finally, economic growth is important in determining the direction of EM asset prices. While real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth hasn’t been a good indicator of stock market direction, nominal GDP growth has been (see chart). And on this measure we again take a cautious stance. The outlook for trade, a historically important growth driver, remains bleak. EM consumers are expected to take up the slack, but rising unemployment and deleveraging suggest this will take time. We would like to see government spending rise to offset the private sector slowdown; however there seems to be little appetite for that. It seems low commodity prices have left the public coffers empty. Meanwhile, it is hard for a head of state to organize reforms or pass new stimulus measures when they are just struggling to stay in office (looking at you Brazil and South Africa).
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
1


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Though we are not optimistic about EMs in general, we are optimistic about India and China specifically. On the three factors mentioned above both countries score well. Neither is reliant on commodity production, in fact, both are in commodity deficit and will benefit immensely if prices stay weak for the next decade. Secondly, the near term growth for both countries is relatively assured. We do have concerns about China in the medium term, especially if it fails to enact reforms, but recent stimulus means 2016 should be much better than last year. India’s growth outlook is rosy thanks to recent interest rate cuts and will be even better if the government can enact reforms or implement large scale projects.
 
The past month has seen a surprising resurgence in demand for EM assets. We would be cautious to chase this trend now. Commodity prices are unlikely to continue this pace of increase and there are still many economic and political problems most EMs face in the coming years which will limit their growth prospects. That said, we must admit that the US Dollar is increasingly looking top-heavy and that even a range bound Dollar is good news. In this environment we prefer large EM economies which are not dependent on rising commodity prices and which have some visibility on near term growth prospects. This is why we continue to hold large positions in both India and China.
 

2
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

(LINE GRAPH)

* Chart data for the period 1/1/1998 – 12/31/2015. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

-s- Louis-Vincent Gave

Louis-Vincent Gave
CEO and Portfolio Manager, GaveKal Capital Limited
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
3


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

The views and information discussed in this commentary are as of the date of publication, are subject to change, and may not reflect the writer’s current views. The views expressed are those of the Fund’s adviser only, and represent an assessment of market conditions at a specific point in time, are opinions only and should not be relied upon as investment advice regarding a particular investment or markets in general. Such information does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell specific securities or investment vehicles. It should not be assumed that any investment will be profitable or will equal the performance of the fund(s) or any securities or any sectors mentioned in this letter. The subject matter contained in this letter has been derived from several sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of compilation. Neither the Fund nor the Adviser accepts any liability for losses either direct or consequential caused by the use of this information.
 
Emerging markets are often less stable politically and economically than developed markets such as the United States and investing in emerging markets involves different and greater risks. There may be less publicly available information about companies in emerging markets. The stock exchanges and brokerage industries of emerging markets do not have the level of government oversight as do those in the United States. Securities markets of such countries are substantially smaller, less liquid and more volatile than securities markets in the United States. Emerging markets may be especially prone to currency-related risks.
 
The MSCI Emerging Markets (EM) Asia Index captures large and mid cap representation across 8 Emerging Markets countries; China, India, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Thailand.
 
YoY: Year over year.
 
Not FDIC Insured – No Bank Guarantee – May Lose Value
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with Evergreen Capital Management, LLC or GaveKal Capital Limited.
 

4
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Portfolio Update

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Performance (as of March 31, 2016)
 
 
3 Month
 
6 Month
 
1 Year
Since Inception*
GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
-1.54%
-0.42%
-8.14%
2.60%
MSCI AC Asia Pacific TR USD(a)
-1.60%
5.27%
-9.41%
0.92%
 
The performance data quoted above represents past performance. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and value of the Fund shares will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Performance may be lower or higher than performance data quoted. Fund performance current to the most recent month-end is available by calling 1-855-331-6240 or by visiting www.gkefund.com.

* Fund’s inception date is August 5, 2013.

(a) The MSCI AC Asia Pacific TR USD Index is designed to measure the equity market performance of the developed and emerging markets in the Pacific region. The Index consists of the following 12 developed and emerging market countries: Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand.

Returns of less than 1 year are cumulative.

Indices are not actively managed and do not reflect deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. An investor cannot invest directly into an index.

The returns shown above do not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or redemption of Fund shares.

The total annual operating expenses and total annual operating expenses after fee waivers and/or reimbursement you may pay as an investor in the Fund (as reported in the January 28, 2016 Prospectus) are 3.69% and 1.81%, respectively. The Fund’s investment adviser has contractually agreed to limit expenses through January 31, 2017.
 
Performance of $100,000 Initial Investment (as of March 31, 2016)

(LINE GRAPH)
 
The graph shown above represents historical performance of a hypothetical investment of $100,000 in the Fund since inception. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All returns reflect reinvested dividends, but do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
5


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Portfolio Update

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Sector Allocation (as a % of Net Assets)*
 
Financial
24.86%
Government
16.09%
Utilities
12.59%
Consumer, Cyclical
8.25%
Consumer, Non-cyclical
7.54%
Industrial
4.03%
Communications
2.83%
Technology
2.24%
Basic Materials
2.00%
Health Care
1.27%
Cash, Cash Equivalents, & Other Net Assets
18.30%
TOTALS
100.00%
 
Top 10 Positions (as a % of Net Assets)*
 
LG Household & Health Care Ltd.
6.24%
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd., Jr. Sub. Notes
6.00%
Yes Bank Ltd., (Loan Participation Notes issued by Citigroup Global Markets Holdings Inc.),
5.33%
Guangdong Investment Ltd.
4.98%
Axis Bank Ltd., (Loan Participation Notes issued by Citigroup Global Markets Holdings Inc.),
4.75%
Indonesia Treasury Bond, Sr. Unsec. Notes
4.72%
Philippine Government International Bond, Sr. Unsec. Notes
4.30%
AIA Group Ltd.
4.15%
Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings Ltd.
4.03%
Indonesia Government International Bond, Sr. Unsec. Notes
3.68%
 
* Holdings are subject to change, and may not reflect the current or future position of the portfolio. Tables present indicative values only.
 

6
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Disclosure of Fund Expenses

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Examples. As a shareholder of the GKE Asian Opportunities Fund (the “Fund”), you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including redemption fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and other Fund expenses. The following examples are intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested on October 1, 2015 and held through March 31, 2016.
 
Actual Expenses. The first line of the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period October 1, 2015 – March 31, 2016” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes. The second line of 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 mutual funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
 
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing Fund costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as redemption fees. Therefore, the second line of 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 transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
 
 
Beginning
Account Value 
October 1, 2015
Ending
Account Value 
March 31, 2016
Expense Ratio(a)
Expenses Paid 
During period 
October 1, 2015 -
March 31, 2016(b)
Actual
$1,000.00
$995.80
1.81%
$9.03
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,015.95
1.81%
$9.12
 
(a) The Fund's expense ratios have been annualized based on the Fund's most recent fiscal half-year expenses.
(b) Expenses are equal to the Fund's annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year (183), divided by 366.
 

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
7


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

   
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
COMMON STOCKS (47.41%)
           
Basic Materials (2.00%)
           
Chemicals (2.00%)
           
Toray Industries, Inc.
   
37,000
   
$
315,344
 
Total Basic Materials
           
315,344
 
                 
Communications (2.83%)
               
Internet (2.52%)
               
Tencent Holdings Ltd.
   
19,500
     
398,177
 
Telecommunications (0.31%)
               
Globe Telecom, Inc.
   
995
     
47,973
 
Total Communications
           
446,150
 
                 
Consumer, Cyclical (7.73%)
               
Auto Manufacturers (1.07%)
               
Dongfeng Motor Group Co. Ltd. - Class H
   
136,000
     
169,708
 
Lodging (5.71%)
               
Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd.
   
134,000
     
502,672
 
Sands China Ltd.
   
98,000
     
399,208
 
Retail (0.95%)
               
CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd.
   
11,500
     
149,284
 
Total Consumer, Cyclical
           
1,220,872
 
                 
Consumer, Non-cyclical (7.54%)
               
Cosmetics/Personal Care (7.54%)
               
Amorepacific Corp.
   
608
     
205,484
 
LG Household & Health Care Ltd.
   
1,192
     
984,995
 
Total Consumer, Non-cyclical
           
1,190,479
 
                 
Financial (8.45%)
               
Diversified Financial Services (1.02%)
               
Haitong Securities Co. Ltd. - Class H
   
93,600
     
159,995
 
Insurance (7.43%)
               
AIA Group Ltd.
   
115,600
     
654,943
 
China Life Insurance Co. Ltd. - Class H
   
114,000
     
281,276
 
Ping An Insurance Group Co. of China Ltd. - Class H
   
49,500
     
236,737
 
Total Financial
           
1,332,951
 

See Notes to Financial Statements.
8
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
   
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Industrial (4.03%)
           
Engineering & Construction (4.03%)
           
Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings Ltd.
   
65,000
   
$
635,558
 
Total Industrial
           
635,558
 
                 
Technology (2.24%)
               
Semiconductors (2.24%)
               
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
   
308
     
353,354
 
Total Technology
           
353,354
 
                 
Utilities (12.59%)
               
Electric (7.61%)
               
Huaneng Power International, Inc. - Class H
   
284,000
     
254,076
 
Korea Electric Power Corp.
   
3,336
     
175,610
 
Manila Electric Co.
   
54,420
     
381,750
 
Power Assets Holdings Ltd.
   
38,000
     
388,702
 
Water (4.98%)
               
Guangdong Investment Ltd.
   
622,000
     
786,586
 
Total Utilities
           
1,986,724
 
                 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $6,887,647)
           
7,481,432
 
                 
PARTICIPATION NOTES (12.20%)
 
Consumer, Cyclical (0.52%)
 
Auto Manufacturers (0.52%)
 
Maruti Suzuki India, (Loan Participation Notes issued by Citigroup Global Markets Holdings Inc.),(a)
expiring 01/17/2017
   
1,450
     
81,372
 
Total Consumer, Cyclical
     
81,372
 

See Notes to Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
9


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Financial (10.41%)
           
Banks (10.41%)
           
Axis Bank Ltd., (Loan Participation Notes issued by Citigroup Global Markets Holdings Inc.),(a)
expiring 01/17/2017
   
111,680
   
$
749,030
 
Kotak Mahindra Bank, Housing Development Finance Co., (Loan Participation Notes issued by Citigroup
Global Markets Holdings Inc.),(a) expiring 01/17/2017
   
5,100
     
52,419
 
Yes Bank Ltd., (Loan Participation Notes issued by Citigroup Global Markets Holdings Inc.),(a)
expiring 01/17/2017
   
64,445
     
841,831
 
Total Financial
           
1,643,280
 
 
               
Health Care (1.27%)
               
Pharmaceuticals (1.27%)
               
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (Loan Participation Notes issued by Citigroup Global Markets Holdings Inc.),(a) expiring 01/17/2017
   
16,220
     
200,844
 
Total Health Care
           
200,844
 
 
               
TOTAL PARTICIPATION NOTES
(Cost $1,704,077)
           
1,925,496
 

 
Currency
 
Principal
Amount
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
CONTINGENT CONVERTIBLE CAPITAL (6.00%)
 
Financial (6.00%)
 
Banks (6.00%)
 
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd., Jr. Sub. Notes, Series 144A
 
           
6.000% Perpetual Maturity (b)(c)(d)
CNY
   
6,000,000
     
946,264
 
 
 
               
 
                 
Total Financial
             
946,264
 
 
                 
TOTAL CONTINGENT CONVERTIBLE CAPITAL
                 
(Cost $964,692)
 
           
946,264
 
 
 
               
GOVERNMENT BONDS (16.09%)
                 
Indonesia Government International Bond, Sr. Unsec. Notes
 
               
5.875% 03/13/2020 (b)
USD
   
480,000
     
535,052
 
6.625% 02/17/2037 (e)
USD
   
500,000
     
580,808
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.
10
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
   
Currency
   
Principal
Amount
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
GOVERNMENT BONDS (continued)
 
Indonesia Treasury Bond, Sr. Unsec. Notes, Series FR70
                 
8.375% 03/15/2024
 
IDR
     
9,500,000,000
   
$
744,453
 
Philippine Government International Bond, Sr. Unsec. Notes
                     
9.875% 01/15/2019
 
USD
     
550,000
     
678,030
 
 
                 
2,538,343
 
           
TOTAL GOVERNMENT BONDS
         
(Cost $2,484,849)
                 
2,538,343
 
 
                     
 
 
7-Day Yield
   
Shares
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (16.73%)
 
Money Market Fund (16.73%)
 
Blackrock Liquidity Temporary Fund, Investor Class
   
0.409
%
   
2,640,566
     
2,640,566
 
 
                       
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
                       
(Cost $2,640,566)
                   
2,640,566
 
 
                       
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (98.43%)
         
(Cost $14,681,831)
                   
15,532,101
 
 
                       
Other Assets In Excess Of Liabilities (1.57%)
     
248,215
(f) 
 
                       
NET ASSETS (100.00%)
           
$
15,780,316
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
11


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
(a) Non-income producing security.
(b) Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"). These securities have been deemed liquid under procedures approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees and may normally be sold to qualified institutional buyers in transactions exempt from registration. Total market value of Rule 144A securities amounts to $1,481,316, which represents approximately 9.39% of the Fund's net assets as of March 31, 2016.
(c) This security has no contractual maturity date, is not redeemable and contractually pays an indefinite stream of interest.
(d) Floating or variable rate security. Interest rate disclosed is that which is in effect at March 31, 2016.
(e) Securities were purchased pursuant to Regulation S under the 1933 Act, which exempts securities offered and sold outside of the United States from registration. Such securities cannot be sold in the United States without either an effective registration statement filed pursuant to the 1933 Act or pursuant to an exemption from registration. These securities have been deemed liquid under procedures approved by the Fund’s Board of Trustees. As of March 31, 2016, the aggregate market value of those securities was $580,808, representing 3.68% of the Fund’s net assets.
(f) Includes cash which is being held as collateral for futures contracts.
 
Common Abbreviations:
Ltd. - Limited.
Jr.  Junior.
Sr. - Senior.
Sub. - Subordinated.
Unsec. - Unsecured.
 
Currency Abbreviations:
CNY - Chinese Yuan
IDR - Indonesian Rupiah
 
For Fund compliance purposes, the Fund's industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indices or ratings group indices, and/or as defined by Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease. Industries are shown as a percentage of the Fund's net assets. (Unaudited)
 
FUTURES CONTRACTS
 
Description
Position
 
Contracts
 
Expiration Date
 
Underlying
Face Amount
at Value
(Note 2)
   
Unrealized (Depreciation)
 
Nikkei 225 (SGX)
Long
   
10
 
06/10/16
 
$
745,257
   
$
(4,616
)
   
$
745,257
   
$
(4,616
)
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

12
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Statement of Assets and Liabilities

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments, at value (Cost $14,681,831)
 
$
15,532,101
 
Foreign currency, at value (Cost $502,608)
   
501,970
 
Deposit with broker for futures contracts, at value (Cost $239,718) (Note 3)
   
243,470
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
48,457
 
Receivable from variation margin
   
4,616
 
Receivable due from advisor
   
7,662
 
Other assets
   
7,482
 
Total assets
   
16,345,758
 
         
LIABILITIES:
 
Payable for investments purchased
   
486,223
 
Payable for administration fees
   
28,460
 
Payable for transfer agency fees
   
7,567
 
Payable to trustees
   
1,900
 
Payable to Chief Compliance Officer
   
3,428
 
Legal fees payable
   
6,148
 
Audit and tax fees payable
   
13,817
 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
17,899
 
Total liabilities
   
565,442
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
15,780,316
 
 
       
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:
 
Paid-in capital (Note 6)
 
$
16,314,196
 
Accumulated net investment loss
   
(83,876
)
Accumulated net realized loss on investments, futures contracts and foreign currency transactions
   
(1,298,022
)
Net unrealized appreciation on investments, futures contracts and translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies
   
848,018
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
15,780,316
 
 
       
PRICING OF SHARES:
       
Net Asset Value, offering and redemption price per share
 
$
10.23
 
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding
   
1,543,208
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
13


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Statement of Operations

For the Six Months Ended March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividends
 
$
16,944
 
Foreign taxes withheld
   
(11,144
)
Interest
   
72,375
 
Total investment income
   
78,175
 
 
       
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (Note 7)
   
119,154
 
Administrative fees
   
71,748
 
Transfer agency fees
   
18,401
 
Legal and audit fees
   
17,922
 
Registration fees
   
10,118
 
Custodian fees
   
20,913
 
Compliance fees
   
10,281
 
Trustees' fees and expenses
   
2,044
 
Other expenses
   
6,269
 
Total Expenses
   
276,850
 
Less fees waived/reimbursed by investment adviser (Note 7)
   
(133,069
)
Net Expenses
   
143,781
 
NET INVESTMENT LOSS
   
(65,606
)
 
       
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS:
       
Net realized gain/(loss) on:
       
Investments
   
(1,339,611
)
Futures contracts
   
57,673
 
Forward hedge contracts
   
11,793
 
Foreign currency transactions
   
91,400
 
Net realized loss
   
(1,178,745
)
 
       
Net Change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:
       
Investments
   
1,163,427
 
Futures contracts
   
(2,632
)
Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies
   
5,039
 
Net Change
   
1,165,834
 
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED LOSS ON INVESTMENTS
   
(12,911
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(78,517
)
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

14
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 
 
 
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
 
OPERATIONS:
 
Net investment income/(loss)
 
$
(65,606
)
 
$
45,846
 
Net realized gain/(loss) on investments, futures contracts, forward hedge contracts and foreign currency transactions
   
(1,178,745
)
   
322,845
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments, futures contracts, forward hedge contracts and translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies
   
1,165,834
     
(604,478
)
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations
   
(78,517
)
   
(235,787
)
 
               
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
 
From net investment income
   
(181,076
)
   
(256,420
)
From net realized gains on investments
   
(121,148
)
   
 
Total distributions
   
(302,224
)
   
(256,420
)
 
               
BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS (Note 6):
 
Shares sold
   
743,900
     
6,619,829
 
Dividends reinvested
   
195,452
     
163,710
 
Shares redeemed
   
(1,117,635
)
   
(1,298,576
)
Redemption fees
   
6
     
388
 
Net increase/(decrease) from beneficial share transactions
   
(178,277
)
   
5,485,351
 
 
               
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets
   
(559,018
)
   
4,993,144
 
 
               
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of year
   
16,339,334
     
11,346,190
 
End of year (Including accumulated net investment income/(loss) of $(83,876) and $162,806)
 
$
15,780,316
   
$
16,339,334
 
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
15


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Financial Highlights

For a share outstanding through the periods presented.
 
 
 
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2014
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2013(a)
 
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
10.47
   
$
10.69
   
$
10.38
   
$
10.00
 
 
                               
INCOME/(LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS:
                               
Net investment income/(loss)(b)
   
(0.04
)
   
0.03
     
0.05
     
0.00
(c) 
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments 
   
     
(0.01
)
   
0.30
     
0.38
 
Total from investment operations
   
(0.04
)
   
0.02
     
0.35
     
0.38
 
 
                               
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
                               
From net investment income
   
(0.12
)
   
(0.24
)
   
(0.00
)(c)
   
 
From net realized gain on investments
   
(0.08
)
   
     
(0.04
)
   
 
Total distributions
   
(0.20
)
   
(0.24
)
   
(0.04
)
   
 
 
                               
REDEMPTION FEES (Note 6)
   
0.00
(c) 
   
0.00
(c) 
   
0.00
(c) 
   
 
 
                               
NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSET VALUE
   
(0.24
)
   
(0.22
)
   
0.31
     
0.38
 
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD
 
$
10.23
   
$
10.47
   
$
10.69
   
$
10.38
 
 
                               
TOTAL RETURN(d)
   
(0.42
%)
   
0.20
%
   
3.37
%
   
3.80
%
 
                               
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
                               
Net assets, end of period (000's)
 
$
15,780
   
$
16,339
   
$
11,346
   
$
2,484
 
 
                               
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
                               
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
3.49
%(e)
   
3.69
%
   
4.93
%
   
23.95
%(e)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
1.81
%(e)
   
1.81
%
   
1.81
%
   
1.81
%(e)
Net investment income/(loss) including reimbursement/waiver
   
(0.83%
)(e)
   
0.31
%
   
0.51
%
   
0.10
%(e)
 
                               
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE(f)
   
117
%
   
245
%
   
219
%
   
22
%
 
See Notes to Financial Statements.

16
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Financial Highlights

 For a share outstanding through the periods presented.
 
(a) Commenced operations on August 5, 2013.
(b) Per share amounts are based upon average shares outstanding.
(c) Less than $0.005/(0.005) per share.
(d) Total returns are for the period indicated and have not been annualized.  Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reimbursed/waived during the period.  Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.  
(e) Annualized.
(f) Portfolio turnover rate for periods less than one full year have not been annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
17


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
1. ORGANIZATION

ALPS Series Trust (the “Trust”), a Delaware statutory trust, is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). As of March 31, 2016, the Trust had 8 registered funds. This semi-annual report describes the GKE Asian Opportunities Fund (the “Fund”). The Fund’s primary investment objective is to achieve capital appreciation through asset allocation among equities, currencies and bonds of the Asia-Pacific region. The Fund currently offers Institutional Class shares. The Board of Trustees (the “Board”) may establish additional funds and classes of shares at any time in the future without shareholder approval.

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The accompanying financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for investment companies (“U.S. GAAP”). The Fund is considered an investment company for financial reporting purposes. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in preparation of its financial statements.

Investment Valuation: The Fund generally values its securities based on market prices determined at the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, on each day the NYSE is open for trading.

Securities traded on a registered U.S. securities exchange (including exchange-traded derivatives other than futures and futures options) are valued based on the last sale price of the security reported on the principal exchange on which it is traded, prior to the time when the Fund’s assets are valued. In the case of equity securities not traded on an exchange, or if such closing prices are not otherwise available, the securities are valued at the mean of the most recent bid and ask prices on such day.

Equity securities that are primarily traded on foreign securities exchanges are valued at the closing values of such securities on their respective foreign exchanges, except when an event occurs subsequent to the close of the foreign exchange and the close of the NYSE that was likely to have changed such value. In such an event, the fair values of those securities are determined in good faith through consideration of other factors in accordance with procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Board. The Fund will use a fair valuation model provided by an independent pricing service, which is intended to reflect fair value when a security’s value or a meaningful portion of the Fund’s portfolio is believed to have been materially affected by a valuation event that has occurred between the close of the exchange or market on which the security is traded and the close of the regular trading day on the NYSE.

The market price for debt obligations is generally the price supplied by an independent third-party pricing service approved by the Board, which may use a matrix, formula or other objective method that takes into consideration quotations from dealers, market transactions in comparable investments, market indices and yield curves. If vendors are unable to supply a price, or if the price supplied is deemed to be unreliable, the market price may be determined using quotations received from one or more broker dealers that make a market in the security. Investments in non-exchange traded funds are fair valued at their respective net asset values.
 

18 
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Redeemable securities issued by open-end registered investment companies are valued at the investment company’s applicable net asset value, with the exception of exchange-traded open-end investment companies, which are priced as equity securities.

Futures contracts that are listed or traded on a national securities exchange, commodities exchange, contract market or comparable over the counter market, and that are freely transferable, are valued at their closing settlement price on the exchange on which they are primarily traded or based upon the current settlement price for a like instrument acquired on the day on which the instrument is being valued. A settlement price may not be used if the market makes a limit move with respect to a particular commodity.

Forward foreign currency contracts have a market value determined by the prevailing foreign currency exchange daily rates and current foreign currency exchange forward rates. The foreign currency exchange forward rates are calculated using an automated system that estimates rates on the basis of the current day foreign currency exchange rates and forward foreign currency exchange rates supplied by a pricing service. Foreign exchange rates and forward foreign currency exchange rates may generally be obtained at the close of the NYSE, normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

When such prices or quotations are not available, or when the fair value committee appointed by the Board believes that they are unreliable, securities may be priced using fair value procedures approved by the Board.

Fair Value Measurements: The Fund discloses the classification of its fair value measurements following a three-tier hierarchy based on the inputs used to measure fair value. Inputs refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity. Unobservable inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on the best information available.

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments as of the end of the reporting period. When inputs used fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the hierarchy within which the fair value measurement falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The designated input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with these investments. These inputs are categorized in the following hierarchy under applicable financial accounting standards:
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
19


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical investments, unrestricted assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access at the measurement date;
 
Level 2 –
Quoted prices which are not active, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable (either directly or indirectly) for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; and

Level 3 –
Significant unobservable prices or inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments) where there is little or no market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date.

The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of March 31, 2016:

Investments in Securities at Value
 
Level 1 - Unadjusted Quoted Prices
   
Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs
   
Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs
   
Total
 
Common Stocks
                       
Basic Materials
 
$
315,344
   
$
   
$
   
$
315,344
 
Communications
   
446,150
     
     
     
446,150
 
Consumer, Cyclical
   
1,220,872
     
     
     
1,220,872
 
Consumer, Non-cyclical
   
1,190,479
     
     
     
1,190,479
 
Financial
   
1,332,951
     
     
     
1,332,951
 
Industrial
   
635,558
     
     
     
635,558
 
Technology
   
353,354
     
     
     
353,354
 
Utilities
   
1,986,724
     
     
     
1,986,724
 
Participation Notes
                               
Consumer, Cyclical
   
     
81,372
     
     
81,372
 
Financial
   
     
1,643,280
     
     
1,643,280
 
Health Care
   
     
200,844
     
     
200,844
 
Contingent Convertible Capital
   
     
946,264
     
     
946,264
 
Government Bonds
   
     
2,538,343
     
     
2,538,343
 
Short-Term Investments
   
2,640,566
     
     
     
2,640,566
 
TOTAL
 
$
10,121,998
   
$
5,410,103
   
$
   
$
15,532,101
 
 
   
Valuation Inputs
       
Other Financial Instruments
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Liabilities
                       
Futures Contracts
 
$
(4,616
)
 
$
   
$
   
$
(4,616
)
TOTAL
 
$
(4,616
)
 
$
   
$
   
$
(4,616
)

The Fund recognizes transfers between levels as of the end of the period. For the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 securities. There were no Level 3 securities held during the period.
 

20 
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Trust Expenses: Some expenses of the Trust can be directly attributed to the Fund. Expenses that cannot be directly attributed to the Fund are apportioned among all funds in the Trust based on average net assets of each fund.

Federal Income Taxes: The Fund complies with the requirements under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies and intends to distribute substantially all of its net taxable income and net capital gains, if any, each year so that it will not be subject to excise tax on undistributed income and gains. The Fund is not subject to income taxes to the extent such distributions are made.

As of and during the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have a liability for any unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying financial statements. The Fund files U.S. federal, state and local income tax returns as required. The Fund’s tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant tax authorities until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years after the filing of the tax return for federal purposes and four years for most state returns. If applicable, the Fund’s administrator has analyzed the Fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state income tax returns for all open tax years and has concluded that as of March 31, 2016, no provision for income tax is required in the Fund’s financial statements related to these tax positions.

Investment Transactions and Investment Income: Investment transactions are accounted for on the date the investments are purchased or sold (trade date basis). Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are reported on an identified cost basis. Interest income, which includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is accrued and recorded as earned. Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date, or for certain foreign securities, as soon as information is available to the Fund.

Foreign Securities: The Fund may directly purchase securities of foreign issuers. Investing in securities of foreign issuers involves special risks not typically associated with investing in securities of U.S. issuers. The risks include possible reevaluation of currencies, the inability to repatriate foreign currency, less complete financial information about companies and possible future adverse political and economic developments. Moreover, securities of many foreign issuers and their markets may be less liquid and their prices more volatile than those of securities of comparable U.S. issuers.

Foreign Currency Translation: The books and records of the Fund are maintained in U.S. dollars. Investment valuations and other assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign currencies are converted each business day into U.S. dollars based upon current exchange rates. The portion of realized and unrealized gains or losses on investments due to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed and is included in realized and unrealized gains or losses on investments, when applicable.

Foreign Exchange Transactions: The Fund may enter into foreign currency spot contracts to facilitate transactions in foreign securities or to convert foreign currency receipts into U.S. dollars. A foreign currency spot contract is an agreement between two parties to buy and sell currencies at the current market rate, for settlement generally within two business days. The U.S. dollar value of the contracts is determined using current currency exchange rates supplied by a pricing service. The contract is marked-to-market daily for settlements beyond one day and any change in market value is recorded as an unrealized gain or loss. When the contract is closed, the Fund records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value on the open and close date. Losses may arise from changes in the value of the foreign currency, or if the counterparties do not perform under the contract’s terms. The maximum potential loss from such contracts is the aggregate face value in U.S. dollars at the time the contract was opened.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
21


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Distributions to Shareholders: The Fund normally pays dividends, if any, and distributes capital gains, if any, on an annual basis. Income dividend distributions are derived from interest and other income the Fund receives from its investments, including distributions of short term capital gains. Long term capital gain distributions are derived from gains realized when the Fund sells a security it has owned for more than one year. The Fund may make additional distributions and dividends at other times if its portfolio manager or managers believe doing so may be necessary for the Fund to avoid or reduce taxes. Net investment income/(loss) and net realized gain/(loss) may differ for financial statement and tax purposes.

3. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Fund’s investment objective permits the Fund to enter into various types of derivatives contracts, including, but not limited to, futures contracts, forward foreign currency contracts, currency swaps and purchased and written options. In doing so, the Fund will employ strategies in differing combinations to permit it to increase, decrease, or change the level or types of exposure to market factors. Central to those strategies are features inherent in derivatives that make them more attractive for this purpose than equity or debt securities; they require little or no initial cash investment, they can focus exposure on only certain selected risk factors, and they may not require the ultimate receipt or delivery of the underlying security (or securities) to the contract. This may allow the Fund to pursue its objectives more quickly and efficiently than if it were to make direct purchases or sales of securities capable of affecting a similar response to market factors.

Risk of Investing in Derivatives: The Fund’s use of derivatives can result in losses due to unanticipated changes in the market risk factors and the overall market. In instances where the Fund is using derivatives to decrease, or hedge, exposures to market risk factors for securities held by the Fund, there are also risks that those derivatives may not perform as expected resulting in losses for the combined or hedged positions.

Derivatives may have little or no initial cash investment relative to their market value exposure and therefore can produce significant gains or losses in excess of their cost. This use of embedded leverage allows the Fund to increase its market value exposure relative to its net assets and can substantially increase the volatility of the Fund’s performance.

Additional associated risks from investing in derivatives also exist and potentially could have significant effects on the valuation of the derivative and the Fund. Typically, the associated risks are not the risks that the Fund is attempting to increase or decrease exposure to, per its investment objective, but are the additional risks from investing in derivatives.
 

22 
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Examples of these associated risks are liquidity risk, which is the risk that the Fund will not be able to sell or close out the derivative in a timely manner, and counterparty credit risk, which is the risk that the counterparty will not fulfill its obligation to the Fund. In addition, use of derivatives may increase or decrease exposure to the following risk factors:
 
Equity Risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market. Associated risks can be different for each type of derivative and are discussed by each derivative type in the notes that follow.
 
Foreign Currency Risk: Currency trading involves significant risks, including market risk, interest rate risk, country risk, counterparty credit risk and short sale risk. Market risk results from the price movement of foreign currency values in response to shifting market supply and demand.

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts: The Fund invests in foreign currency exchange contracts to reduce the risks of fluctuating exchange rates and to generate returns uncorrelated to the other strategies employed. A forward foreign currency exchange contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a future date, which may be a fixed number of days from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the contract. By entering into a forward foreign currency exchange contract, the Fund “locks in” the exchange rate between the currency it will deliver and the currency it will receive for the duration of the contract. As a result, the Fund reduces its exposure to changes in the value of the currency it will deliver and increases its exposure to changes in the value of the currency it will exchange into. The Fund may enter into these contracts for the purpose of hedging against foreign exchange risk arising from the Fund’s investment or anticipated investment in securities denominated in foreign currencies. The Fund also may enter into these contracts for purposes of increasing exposure to a foreign currency or to shift exposure to foreign currency fluctuations from one country to another. The Fund may use one currency (or a basket of currencies) to hedge against adverse changes in the value of another currency (or a basket of currencies) when exchange rates between the two currencies are positively correlated. The unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) is reported in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as receivable or payable and in the Statement of Operations within the change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation). At contract close, the difference between the original cost of the contract and the value at the close date is recorded as a realized gain/(loss) in the Statement of Operations. The Fund did not hold any forward foreign currency contracts as of March 31, 2016.

Futures: The Fund may invest in futures contracts in accordance with its investment objectives. The Fund does so for a variety of reasons including for cash management, hedging or non-hedging purposes in an attempt to achieve investment returns consistent with the Fund’s investment objective. A futures contract provides for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party of a specified quantity of the security or other financial instrument at a specified price and time. A futures contract on an index is an agreement pursuant to which two parties agree to take or make delivery of an amount of cash equal to the difference between the value of the index at the close of the last trading day of the contract and the price at which the index contract was originally written. Futures transactions may result in losses in excess of the amount invested in the futures contract. There can be no guarantee that there will be a correlation between price movements in the hedging vehicle and in the portfolio securities being hedged. An incorrect correlation could result in a loss on both the hedged securities in the Fund and the hedging vehicle so that the portfolio return might have been greater had hedging not been attempted. There can be no assurance that a liquid market will exist at a time when the Fund seeks to close out a futures contract or a futures option position. Lack of a liquid market for any reason may prevent the Fund from liquidating an unfavorable position, and the Fund would remain obligated to meet margin requirements until the position is closed. In addition, the Fund could be exposed to risk if the counterparties to the contracts are unable to meet the terms of their contracts. With exchange traded futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Fund since futures are exchange traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. When a purchase or sale of a futures contract is made by the Fund, the Fund is required to deposit with its custodian (or broker, if legally permitted) a specified amount of liquid assets (“initial margin”). The margin required for a futures contract is set by the exchange on which the contract is traded and may be modified during the term of the contract. The initial margin is in the nature of a performance bond or good faith deposit on the futures contract that is returned to the Fund upon termination of the contract, assuming all contractual obligations have been satisfied. Each day the Fund may pay or receive cash, called “variation margin,” equal to the daily change in value of the futures contract. Such payments or receipts are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Fund. Variation margin does not represent a borrowing or loan by the Fund but is instead a settlement between the Fund and the broker of the amount one would owe the other if the futures contract expired. When the contract is closed, the Fund records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value of the contract at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed. As of March 31, 2016, the Fund had futures contracts outstanding with net unrealized depreciation of $(4,616). The average number of contracts held during the period was five.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
23


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Derivative Instruments: The following tables disclose the amounts related to the Fund’s use of derivative instruments.

The effect of derivative instruments on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of March 31, 2016:

Derivatives Not Accounted
for As Hedging Instruments
Asset Derivatives Statement of Assets and Liabilities Location
 
Fair Value
 
Liability Derivatives Statement of Assets and Liabilities Location
 
Fair Value
 
Equity Contracts (Futures contracts)*
Receivable from variation margin
 
$
4,616
 
Payable for variation margin
 
$
 
Total
   
$
4,616
     
$
 

* Includes the cumulative appreciation/depreciation of futures contracts as reported in the Portfolio of Investments. Only the current day’s net variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
 

24 
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
The effect of derivative instruments on the Statement of Operations for the period ended March 31, 2016:

Derivatives Not Accounted
for As Hedging Instruments
Location of Gains/(Losses) On 
Derivatives Recognized in Income
 
Realized Gain/(Loss) On Derivatives Recognized
   
Change in Unrealized Gain/(Loss) on Derivatives Recognized
 
Foreign Exchange Contracts (Forward foreign currency contracts)
Net realized gain/(loss) on: Forward hedge contracts / Net Change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on: Forward hedge contracts
 
$
11,793
   
$
 
Equity Contracts (Futures contracts)
Net realized gain/(loss) on: Futures contracts / Net Change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on: Futures contracts
   
57,673
     
(2,632
)
Total
   
$
69,466
   
$
(2,632
)

4. TAX BASIS INFORMATION

Tax Basis of Distributions to Shareholders: The character of distributions made during the period from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from its ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. Also, due to the timing of dividend distributions, the fiscal year in which amounts are distributed may differ from the fiscal year in which the income or realized gain were recorded by the Fund. The amounts and characteristics of tax basis distributions and composition of distributable earnings/(accumulated losses) are finalized at fiscal year-end. Accordingly, tax basis balances have not been determined as of the date of the semi-annual.

The tax character of distributions paid by the Fund for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015:

   
Ordinary
Income
   
Long-Term
Capital Gain
 
   
$
256,420
   
$
 

The tax character of distributions paid by the Fund for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014:

   
Ordinary
Income
   
Long-Term
Capital Gain
 
   
$
42,713
   
$
 
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
25


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Unrealized Appreciation and Depreciation on Investments: As of March 31, 2016, the aggregate cost of investments, gross unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) and net unrealized appreciation for Federal tax purposes were as follows:

Gross unrealized appreciation (excess of value over tax cost)
$969,964
Gross unrealized depreciation (excess of tax cost over value)
(133,832)
Net unrealized appreciation
$836,132
Cost of investments for income tax purposes
$14,695,969

5. SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS

Purchases and sales of securities, excluding short-term securities, during the period ended March 31, 2016 were as follows:

   
Purchases of
Securities
   
Proceeds from
Sales of Securities
 
   
$
16,151,626
   
$
19,063,655
 

6. BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

The capitalization of the Trust consists of an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest with no par value per share. Holders of the shares of the Fund have one vote for each share held and a proportionate fraction of a vote for each fractional share. All shares issued and outstanding are fully paid and are transferable and redeemable at the option of the shareholder. Shares have no pre-emptive rights. Neither the Fund nor any of its creditors has the right to require shareholders to pay any additional amounts solely because the shareholder owns the shares.

Shares redeemed within 45 calendar days of purchase may incur a 2% short-term redemption fee deducted from the redemption amount. For the period ended March 31, 2016, the redemption fees charged by the Fund are presented in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets.

   
For the Six
Months Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
 
Shares Sold
   
74,112
     
597,394
 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions to shareholders
   
19,031
     
15,503
 
Shares Redeemed
   
(110,104
)
   
(113,691
)
Net increase from share transactions
   
(16,961
)
   
499,206
 

Control is defined by the 1940 Act as the beneficial ownership, either directly or through one or more controlled companies, of more than 25% of the voting securities of a company.

Approximately 90% of the shares outstanding are held within two omnibus accounts. Investment activities of these shareholders could have a material impact on the Fund.
 

26 
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

7. MANAGEMENT AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Investment Advisory: Evergreen Capital Management, LLC (“Evergreen Capital” or the “Adviser”), subject to the authority of the Board, is responsible for the overall management and administration of the Fund’s business affairs. The Adviser has delegated daily management of the Fund to GaveKal Capital Limited (the “Sub-Adviser”), who is paid by the Adviser and not the Fund. The Sub-Adviser manages the investments of the Fund in accordance with the Fund’s investment objective, policies and limitations and investment guidelines established jointly by the Adviser and the Board.

Pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement with the Adviser (the “Advisory Agreement”), the Fund pays the Adviser an annual management fee of 1.50% based on the Fund’s average daily net assets, computed daily and payable monthly. Pursuant to an Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement”) with the Sub-Adviser, the Adviser pays the Sub-Adviser an annual sub-advisory management fee of 0.825% based on the Fund’s average daily net assets, computed daily and payable monthly. The Adviser is required to pay all fees due to the Sub-Adviser out of the management fee the Adviser receives from the Fund. The initial term for both the Advisory Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement is two years. The Board may extend the Advisory Agreement and/or the Sub-Advisory Agreement for additional one-year terms. The Board, shareholders of the Fund or the Adviser may terminate the Advisory Agreement or the Sub-Advisory Agreement upon 60 days’ notice.

Pursuant to a fee waiver letter agreement (the “Fee Waiver Agreement”), the Adviser has contractually agreed to waive and/or reimburse fees or expenses in order to limit the Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses, excluding brokerage expenses, interest expenses, taxes and extraordinary expenses, to 1.81% of the Fund’s average daily net assets for the Institutional Class shares. The Fee Waiver Agreement is in effect through January 31, 2017 and may not be terminated or modified prior to this date except with the approval of the Fund’s Board. The Adviser will be permitted to recover expenses it has borne through the Fee Waiver Agreement to the extent that the Fund’s expenses in later periods fall below the annual rates set forth in the Fee Waiver Agreement. The Fund will not be obligated to pay any such deferred fees and expenses more than three years after the end of the fiscal year(s) in which the fees and expenses were deferred.

For the six-month period ended March 31, 2016, the fee waivers and/or reimbursements were $133,069.

As of March 31, 2016, the balance of recoupable expenses was $640,925, of which $53,646 expires in 2016, $306,479 expires in 2017 and $280,800 expires in 2018.

Administrator: ALPS Fund Services, Inc. (“ALPS”) (an affiliate of ALPS Distributors, Inc.) serves as administrator to the Fund. The Fund has agreed to pay expenses incurred in connection with its administrative activities. Pursuant to the Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement with the Trust, ALPS will provide operational services to the Fund including, but not limited to, fund accounting and fund administration and generally assist in the Fund’s operations. The Fund’s administration fee is accrued on a daily basis and paid monthly. The officers of the Trust are employees of ALPS. Administration fees paid by the Fund for the period ended March 31, 2016 are disclosed in the Statement of Operations. ALPS is reimbursed by the Fund for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
27


GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Notes to Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Transfer Agent: ALPS serves as transfer agent for the Fund under a Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund plus fees for open accounts and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.

Compliance Services: ALPS provides services as the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer to monitor and test the policies and procedures of the Fund in conjunction with requirements under Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act pursuant to a Chief Compliance Officer Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.

Distribution: ALPS Distributors, Inc. (the “Distributor”) (an affiliate of ALPS) acts as the principal underwriter of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with the Trust. Shares of the Fund are offered on a continuous basis through the Distributor, as agent of the Fund. The Distributor is not obligated to sell any particular amount of shares and is not entitled to any compensation for its services as the Fund’s principal underwriter pursuant to the Distribution Agreement.

8. TRUSTEES

As of March 31, 2016, there were four Trustees, three of whom are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”). The Independent Trustees receive a quarterly retainer of $4,000, plus $2,000 for each regular Board or Committee meeting attended, $2,000 for each special telephonic Board or Committee meeting attended and $2,000 for each special in-person Board meeting attended. The Independent Trustees are also reimbursed for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at meetings and for meeting-related expenses. Officers of the Trust and Trustees who are interested persons of the Trust receive no salary or fees from the Trust.

9. INDEMNIFICATIONS

Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts with service providers that may contain general indemnification clauses which may permit indemnification to the extent permissible under applicable law. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred.
 

28 
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GKE Asian Opportunities Fund
Additional Information

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

1. PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND VOTING RECORD

A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge, upon request, (i) by calling the Fund (toll free) at 1-855-331-6240 or (ii) on the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12 month period ended June 30 is available (i) without charge, upon request, by calling the Fund (toll free) at 1-855-331-6240 or (ii) on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov.

2. PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS

The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Forms N-Q are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C., and information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
29


 

 
 
 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
Shareholder Letter
1
Portfolio Update
4
Disclosure of Fund Expenses
6
Consolidated Portfolio of Investments
7
Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities
16
Consolidated Statement of Operations
17
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets
18
Consolidated Financial Highlights
20
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
24
Additional Information
36
 

Insignia Macro Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Market Summary
For the six month period-ended March 31, 2016, global capital markets remained volatile, as a result of commodity weakness and tepid global economic growth. The U.S. Federal Reserve (the “Fed”) increased interest rates modestly in December 2015 amid strengthening employment data and other economic barometers, but have subsequently tempered guidance for further interest rate hikes in 2016 due to domestic economic data and global risks perceived. In contrast, other central banks including the European Central Bank (“ECB”) and the Bank of Japan (“BOJ”) announced expanded stimulus packages throughout the trailing six month period. The BOJ moved to a negative interest rate policy on excess bank reserves which contributed to weak investor sentiment. At the end of February, 2016, the Peoples Bank of China (“PBOC”) cut its required reserve ratio again, seeking to stem weakening credit conditions and to stabilize its currency and economy. We anticipate that the acute focus on global central bank policy will continue to create relative opportunities as well as risks for market participants.
 
Commodity weakness from 2015 extended to 2016 with WTI crude oil hitting a new low of $26/bbl and natural gas reaching its lowest level since 1999. In the latter part of the first quarter of 2016, there was a modest rally across the energy and metals complexes which reversed recent downward trends. Global equities remained volatile throughout the fiscal year with U.S. large capitalization equities generally outperforming. Emerging markets equities which remained under pressure for much of 2015, staged a sharp rally in 2016 as commodity prices firmed. Global fixed income continued to rally into the fiscal year-end as yields compressed particularly in U.S., U.K. and Europe amid global uncertainty and central bank accommodation. Global currencies remained volatile as U.S. Dollar strength faded in 2016. Conversely, European and Japanese currencies rallied, as did emerging markets currencies linked to commodities. After the surprise devaluation of Chinese currency back in August 2015, market participants remain focused on further actions from the PBOC.
 
Fund Overview
The Adviser allocates to managers across a broad spectrum of global macro/managed futures strategies. These managers include traders who employ a quantitative approach, discretionary macro managers whose top-down global economic analysis drives their trading themes and momentum-based trend followers. The Fund’s primary underlying exposures are in very liquid markets including commodities, currencies, equities and fixed income. The Fund’s objective is to profit from directional opportunities seeking returns that are uncorrelated to traditional long-only and other hedged strategies. As such, the Fund is designed to complement investors’ existing investment portfolios. The Fund will typically average between 5-15 managers with a maximum allocation of 20% to any one manager.
 
The Fund provides global macro/managed futures exposure through investments in Commodity Trading Advisors (CTAs). As mentioned, we generally invest in three sub-strategies of managers: quantitative, discretionary macro and trend followers. As of March 31, 2016, the quantitative, factor-based managers made up 54.01% of the Fund. These managers take positions that are not solely based on price. They may look at economic data and other factors in determining which markets and direction in which they trade. As of March 31, 2016, the discretionary macro managers made up 45.99% of the Fund. These managers take positions based on their current views of global economic activity. Finally, as of March 31, 2016, there were no trend following managers in the Fund, however we anticipate making selective additions in the near-term. These managers tend to be price-based and take positions as their trading models identify trends over various time periods. During the six month period-ended March 31, 2016, we redeemed from two managers and hired one manager. These portfolio changes effectively increased the Fund’s allocation to quantitative managers.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 1

Insignia Macro Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Global Macro/Managed Futures Strategy Exposure
 
(PIE CHART)
 
Subject to change. Chart data as of 3/31/2016.
 
The global macro/managed futures managers are selected by Meritage Capital, LLC (the “Adviser”) to gain exposure to the global macro/managed futures managers, sub strategies and programs are subject to change at any time, and any such change may alter the Fund’s access and percentage exposures to each such manager, sub-strategy and program. Although the Fund intends to pursue its global macro/managed futures strategy by investing up to 25% of its total assets in a wholly-owned subsidiary, the Fund may also make global macro/managed futures investments directly, outside of such subsidiary.
 
Performance Review
For the six month period-ended March 31, 2016, the Insignia Macro Fund (I Shares) return was -1.49% while the HFRI Macro (Total) Index gained +1.04%. Across the Fund, three of the seven managers reported positive performance for the six month period-ended March 31, 2016. The largest contributor to the Fund’s positive performance was Cambridge Strategy - Emerging Markets Currency Alpha Strategy, earning +7.09%. Also noteworthy, Abraham Diversified Program returned +2.56% and QMS Diversified Global Macro Strategy returned +0.54%. The largest detractor to the Fund’s performance was H2O Force 10, down -8.51%. Willowbridge Wpraxis Futures, Tlaloc Capital Fund Grains Program and FORT Global Contrarian also detracted from performance at -3.99%, -1.08% and -1.00%, respectively.
 
With escalating market volatility and a diverging global economic landscape, the Fund experienced overall negative performance, primarily as a result of detracting global equity positions and agricultural commodity positions, both long and short. Gains during the period were made in the currency markets as well as in short positions across the energy complex and select fixed income positions.
 

2
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Insignia Macro Fund
Shareholder Letter

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
Market Outlook
Over the past six months, several macroeconomic forces have dominated investor’s risk appetite, including accommodative global central bank policy, energy price weakness and emerging markets growth concerns. Looking ahead, we anticipate that there will be more volatility across markets, which should bode well for systematic strategies within the Fund.
 
As of March 31, 2016, the Fund’s composition remains diversified primarily across a complementary roster of quantitative and discretionary macro managers. Looking ahead and across asset classes, we anticipate increasing allocations to proven quantitative and discretionary macro managers who can utilize dynamic trading to navigate the volatile markets.
 
We believe the Insignia Macro Fund is well-positioned as we look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead across the investment landscape. We remain focused on our mission of compounding wealth through delivering higher, risk-adjusted returns. Thank you for your continuing support and for investing in the Insignia Macro Fund.
 
Sincerely,
 
-s- Joe Wade
 
Joe Wade
Chief Investment Officer
Portfolio Manager
 
Diversification does not eliminate the risk of experiencing investment losses.
 
The views and information discussed in this commentary are as of the date of publication, are subject to change, and may not reflect the writer’s current views. The views expressed are those of the Fund’s adviser only, and represent an assessment of market conditions at a specific point in time, are opinions only and should not be relied upon as investment advice regarding a particular investment or markets in general. Such information does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell specific securities or investment vehicles. It should not be assumed that any investment will be profitable or will equal the performance of the fund(s) or any securities or any sectors mentioned in this letter. The subject matter contained in this letter has been derived from several sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of compilation. Neither the Fund nor the Adviser accepts any liability for losses either direct or consequential caused by the use of this information.
 
Not FDIC Insured – No Bank Guarantee – May Lose Value
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with Meritage Capital, LLC or Sage Advisory Services, Ltd.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 3

Insignia Macro Fund
Portfolio Update

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Performance (as of March 31, 2016)
 
 
3 Month
6 Month
1 Year
Since Inception*
Insignia Macro Fund - A NAV
-0.79%
-1.55%
-3.95%
3.07%
Insignia Macro Fund - A MOP
-6.24%
-6.97%
-9.27%
0.52%
Insignia Macro Fund - I
-0.79%
-1.49%
-3.89%
3.12%
HFRI Macro (Total) Index(a)
1.18%
1.04%
-3.27%
2.40%
S&P 500® Total Return Index(b)
1.35%
8.49%
1.78%
7.16%
 
The performance data quoted above represents past performance. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and value of the Fund shares will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Performance may be lower or higher than performance data quoted. Fund performance current to the most recent month-end is available by calling (855) 674-4642 or by visiting www.insigniafunds.com.
 
 * Fund's inception date is December 31, 2013.
 (a) The HFRI Macro (Total) Index is an equally weighted performance index. It uses the HFR database and consists only of macro funds with a minimum of US$50 million AUM or a 12-month track record and that report assets in USD. It is calculated and rebalanced monthly, and shown net of all fees and expenses. It is an index comprising of investment managers which trade a broad range of strategies in which the investment process is predicated on movements in underlying economic variables and the impact these have on equity, fixed income, hard currency and commodity markets. Managers employ a variety of techniques, both discretionary and systematic analysis, combinations of top down and bottom up theses, quantitative and fundamental approaches and long and short term holding periods. Both index returns and index methodology are provided by Hedge Fund Research Inc. Index returns are updated periodically and are subject to change. Returns were accurate as of the publication date of this presentation.
 (b) S&P 500® Total Return Index is the Standard & Poor's composite index of 500 stocks, a widely recognized, unmanaged index of common stock prices.
 
Returns of less than 1 year are cumulative.
 
Indices are not actively managed and do not reflect deduction for fees, expenses or taxes. An investor cannot invest directly in an index.
 
The returns shown above do not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or redemption of Fund shares.
 
Maximum Offering Price (MOP) for Class A shares includes the Fund’s maximum sales charge of 5.50%. Performance shown at NAV does not include these sales charges and would have been lower had it been taken into account. If you invest $1 million or more, either as a lump sum or through the Fund's accumulation or letter of intent programs, you can purchase Class A shares without an initial sales charge (Load); however, a Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") of 1.00% may apply to Class A shares redeemed within the first 18 months after a purchase in excess of $1 million. The total annual operating expenses and total annual operating expenses after fee waivers and/or reimbursement you may pay as an investor in the Fund’s Class A and Class I shares (as reported in the January 28, 2016 Prospectus) are 2.46% and 2.02% and 2.25% and 1.77%, respectively. The Fund’s investment adviser has contractually agreed to limit expenses through January 31, 2017.
 

4
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Insignia Macro Fund
Portfolio Update

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Performance of $10,000 Initial Investment (as of March 31, 2016)
 
(LINE GRAPH)
 
The graph shown above represents historical performance of a hypothetical investment of $10,000 in the Fund since inception. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All returns reflect reinvested dividends, but do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
 
Asset Allocation (as a % of Net Assets)*
 
Corporate Bonds
28.24%
Asset-Backed Securities
12.31%
Mortgage-Backed Securities
9.49%
U.S. Treasury Notes & Bonds
6.96%
Municipal Bonds
6.04%
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Other Net Assets
36.96%
Total
100.00%
 
* Holdings are subject to change, and may not reflect the current or future position of the portfolio. Tables present indicative values only.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 5

Insignia Macro Fund
Disclosure of Fund Expenses

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Examples. As a shareholder of the Insignia Macro Fund (the “Fund”), you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including applicable redemption fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees, distribution and service (12b-1) fees and other Fund expenses. The following examples are intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested on October 1, 2015 and held through March 31, 2016.
 
Actual Expenses. The first line under each class in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading “Expenses Paid During Period October 1, 2015 – March 31, 2016” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes. The second line under each class in 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 mutual funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
 
Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing Fund costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as redemption fees. Therefore, the second line under each class in 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 transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
 
 
Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2015
Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2016
Expense
Ratio(a)(b)
Expenses Paid
During Period
October 1, 2015 - March 31, 2016(c)
Class A
       
Actual
$1,000.00
$984.50
2.00%
$9.92
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,015.00
2.00%
$10.08
Class I
       
Actual
$1,000.00
$985.10
1.75%
$8.68
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,016.25
1.75%
$8.82
 
(a) The Fund's expense ratios have been annualized based on the Fund's most recent fiscal half-year expenses.
(b) Includes expenses of the Insignia Macro Cayman Fund (wholly-owned subsidiary), exclusive of the subsidiary’s management fee.
(c) Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year (183), divided by 366.
 

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Insignia Macro Fund
Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
   
Principal
Amount
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (12.31%)
 
Automobile (6.36%)
 
CarMax Auto Owner Trust
 
Series 2013-1,  0.600%   10/16/2017
 
$
88,996
   
$
88,952
 
Series 2013-4,  0.800%   07/16/2018(a)
   
282,497
     
282,263
 
Series 2015-2,  0.820%   06/15/2018
   
407,346
     
407,153
 
Fifth Third Auto Trust
 
Series 2014-2,  0.890%   11/15/2018(a)
   
444,095
     
443,815
 
Ford Credit Auto Owner Trust
 
Series 2013-B,  0.570%   10/15/2017
   
51,019
     
51,000
 
Series 2015-A,  0.686%   01/15/2018(a)
   
172,745
     
172,707
 
Ford Credit Floorplan Master Owner Trust
 
Series 2013-5,  0.897%   09/15/2018(a)
   
400,000
     
400,067
 
Honda Auto Receivables Trust
 
Series 2014-2,  0.770%   03/19/2018(a)
   
342,507
     
342,009
 
Series 2014-B,  0.900%   12/17/2018
   
362,773
     
362,319
 
Series 2015-3,  0.920%   11/20/2017(a)
   
475,000
     
474,974
 
Nissan Auto Receivables Owner Trust
 
Series 2014-B,  0.600%   06/15/2017
   
135,408
     
135,346
 
Series 2013-C,  0.670%   08/15/2018(a)
   
397,318
     
396,782
 
Toyota Auto Receivables Owner Trust
 
Series 2013-B,  0.890%   07/17/2017
   
192,265
     
192,253
 
Total Automobile
           
3,749,640
 
                 
Credit Card (5.36%)
 
American Express Credit Account Master Trust
 
Series 2013-3,  0.980%   05/15/2019
   
125,000
     
125,100
 
Cabela's Credit Card Master Note Trust
 
Series 2014-1,  0.786%   03/16/2020(a)
   
340,000
     
339,635
 
Capital One Multi-Asset Execution Trust
 
Series 2014-A1,  0.822%   11/15/2019(a)
   
292,000
     
291,945
 
Chase Issuance Trust
 
Series 2013-A3,  0.716%   04/15/2020(a)
   
728,000
     
728,336
 
Series 2013-A8,  1.010%   10/15/2018
   
250,000
     
250,199
 
Citibank Credit Card Issuance Trust
 
Series 2013-A3,  1.110%   07/23/2018
   
450,000
     
450,503
 
Series 2013-A6,  1.320%   09/07/2018
   
250,000
     
250,484
 
Discover Card Execution Note Trust
 
Series 2011-A4,  0.786%   05/15/2019
   
270,000
     
270,268
 
Series 2013-A5,  1.040%   04/15/2019
   
450,000
     
450,548
 
Total Credit Card
           
3,157,018
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 7

Insignia Macro Fund
Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
   
Principal
Amount
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Other (0.59%)
 
John Deere Owner Trust
 
Series 2015-A, 0.870% 02/15/2018
 
$
344,703
   
$
344,595
 
                 
TOTAL ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (Cost $7,251,356)
           
7,251,253
 
                 
CORPORATE BONDS (28.24%)
 
Basic Materials (1.62%)
 
BHP Billiton Finance USA Ltd., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.875% 11/21/2016
   
470,000
     
471,870
 
Rio Tinto Finance USA PLC, Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.375% 06/17/2016
   
485,000
     
484,782
 
Total Basic Materials
           
956,652
 
                 
Communications (4.54%)
 
Amazon.com, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.200% 11/29/2017
   
450,000
     
450,976
 
AT&T, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.559% 06/30/2020(a)
   
455,000
     
450,634
 
DIRECTV Holdings LLC / DIRECTV Financing Co. Inc. Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
2.400% 03/15/2017
   
475,000
     
480,679
 
eBay, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.350% 07/15/2017
   
490,000
     
489,174
 
Verizon Communications, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
2.500% 09/15/2016
   
396,000
     
399,099
 
Vodafone Group PLC, Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.625% 03/20/2017
   
400,000
     
401,667
 
Total Communications
           
2,672,229
 
                 
Consumer, Cyclical (3.77%)
 
American Honda Finance Corp., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.125% 10/07/2016
   
485,000
     
486,082
 
CVS Caremark Corp., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.200% 12/05/2016
   
380,000
     
380,916
 
Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.500% 01/17/2017
   
445,000
     
444,528
 
Macy's Retail Holdings, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
5.900% 12/01/2016
   
445,000
     
458,687
 
Whirlpool Corp., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
6.500% 06/15/2016
   
445,000
     
449,283
 
Total Consumer, Cyclical
           
2,219,496
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

8 
www.insigniafunds.com

Insignia Macro Fund
Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
   
Principal
Amount
   
Value
(Note 2)
 
Consumer, Non-cyclical (3.02%)
 
AbbVie, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
           
1.750% 11/06/2017
 
$
480,000
   
$
482,447
 
Amgen, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
2.500% 11/15/2016
   
445,000
     
449,419
 
Anheuser-Busch InBev Finance, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
0.811% 01/27/2017(a)
   
330,000
     
329,566
 
Express Scripts Inc, Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
3.125% 05/15/2016
   
445,000
     
446,223
 
The Kroger Co., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
2.200% 01/15/2017
   
70,000
     
70,541
 
Total Consumer, Non-cyclical
           
1,778,196
 
                 
Energy (3.91%)
 
Anadarko Petroleum Corp., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
5.950% 09/15/2016
   
465,000
     
472,662
 
ConocoPhillips Co., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.050% 12/15/2017
   
445,000
     
438,798
 
ONEOK Partners LP, Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
6.150% 10/01/2016
   
445,000
     
456,772
 
Phillips 66, Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
2.950% 05/01/2017
   
470,000
     
478,725
 
Shell International Finance BV, Sr. Unesc. Notes
               
1.125% 08/21/2017
   
455,000
     
454,832
 
Total Energy
           
2,301,789
 
                 
Financial (8.42%)
 
American Express Credit Corp., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.128% 07/29/2016(a)
   
360,000
     
360,460
 
Series MTN, 2.375% 03/24/2017
   
114,000
     
115,359
 
Bank of America Corp., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
5.750% 08/15/2016
   
250,000
     
253,793
 
Bank of New York Mellon, Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
Series MTN, 2.300% 07/28/2016
   
480,000
     
482,513
 
Capital One Financial Corp., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
3.150% 07/15/2016
   
488,000
     
490,821
 
Citigroup, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.402% 04/01/2016(a)
   
285,000
     
285,000
 
3.953% 06/15/2016
   
238,000
     
239,385
 
The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
5.750% 10/01/2016
   
435,000
     
445,183
 
JPMorgan Chase & Co., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
2.115% 03/01/2021(a)
   
455,000
     
462,209
 
MetLife, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
6.750% 06/01/2016
   
75,000
     
75,721
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 9

Insignia Macro Fund
Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Principal
   
Value
 
 
 
Amount
   
(Note 2)
 
Financial (continued)
 
Nomura Holdings, Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
           
Series MTN,  2.000%   09/13/2016
 
$
63,000
   
$
63,195
 
PNC Funding Corp., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
2.700%   09/19/2016
   
685,000
     
689,786
 
Royal Bank of Canada, Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
Series GMTN,  1.096%   09/09/2016(a)
   
287,000
     
287,381
 
Ventas Realty LP, Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.550%   09/26/2016
   
699,000
     
699,858
 
Total Financial
           
4,950,664
 
 
               
Technology (0.81%)
 
Intel Corp., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.350%   12/15/2017
   
475,000
     
479,019
 
 
               
Utilities (2.15%)
 
American Electric Power Co. Inc., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.650%   12/15/2017
   
354,000
     
352,046
 
Sempra Energy, Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
6.500%   06/01/2016
   
435,000
     
438,419
 
Southern Co., Sr. Unsec. Notes
               
1.950%   09/01/2016
   
475,000
     
477,303
 
Total Utilities
           
1,267,768
 
 
               
TOTAL CORPORATE BONDS
         
(Cost $16,606,502)
           
16,625,813
 
 
               
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (9.49%)
 
Commercial (8.34%)
 
Bear Stearns Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust
 
Series 2006-T24,  5.537%   10/12/2041
   
300,971
     
303,413
 
Series 2006-PW13,  5.540%   09/11/2041
   
376,674
     
377,831
 
Series 2007-PW16,  5.721%   06/11/2040(a)
   
294,010
     
301,298
 
CFCRE Commercial Mortgage Trust
 
Series 2011-C2,  3.061%   12/15/2047
   
241,813
     
243,240
 
Citigroup Commercial Mortgage Trust
 
Series 2006-C4,  6.085%   03/15/2049(a)
   
370,000
     
369,786
 
DBUBS Mortgage Trust
 
Series 2011-LC3A,  3.642%   08/10/2044
   
330,902
     
331,335
 
GS Mortgage Securities Trust
 
Series 2012-GCJ7,  2.318%   05/10/2045
   
480,000
     
483,136
 
Series 2011-GC5,  2.999%   08/10/2044
   
379,136
     
379,733
 
Series 2006-GG8,  5.560%   11/10/2039
   
414,696
     
417,269
 
LB-UBS Commercial Mortgage Trust
 
Series 2006-C7,  5.347%   11/15/2038
   
475,000
     
479,449
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

10
www.insigniafunds.com

Insignia Macro Fund
Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Principal
   
Value
 
 
 
Amount
   
(Note 2)
 
Commercial (continued)
 
Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust
 
Series 2007-T25,  5.514%   11/12/2049(a)
 
$
431,691
   
$
437,802
 
Series 2007-T27,  5.645%   06/11/2042(a)
   
97,478
     
101,405
 
Series 2006-T23,  5.891%   08/12/2041(a)
   
208,760
     
209,184
 
Wachovia Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust
 
Series 2006-C29,  5.308%   11/15/2048
   
474,602
     
478,863
 
Total Commercial
           
4,913,744
 
 
               
U.S. Government Agency (1.15%)
 
Fannie Mae Connecticut Avenue Securities
 
Series 2014-C02,  1.383%   05/25/2024(a)
   
397,417
     
392,365
 
Series 2014-C03,  1.633%   07/25/2024(a)
   
154,605
     
154,154
 
Series 2015-C01,  1.933%   02/25/2025(a)
   
128,370
     
128,393
 
Total U.S. Government Agency
           
674,912
 
 
               
TOTAL MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES
               
(Cost $5,650,837)
           
5,588,656
 
 
               
MUNICIPAL BONDS (6.04%)
 
Certificate Participation (0.26%)
 
Seminole County FL School Board
               
4.000%   07/01/2016
   
50,000
     
50,406
 
State of Oregon Department of Administrative Services
               
3.913%   05/01/2016
   
100,000
     
100,226
 
Total Certificate Participation
           
150,632
 
 
               
General Obligation (0.40%)
 
Carol Stream Park District
               
4.250%   10/01/2016
   
105,000
     
106,733
 
City of Thomasville GA
               
4.000%   04/01/2016
   
15,000
     
15,000
 
Grand Haven Michigan Area Public Schools
               
2.500%   05/01/2016
   
50,000
     
50,076
 
State of California General Obligation Unlimited
               
5.950%   04/01/2016
   
65,000
     
65,000
 
Total General Obligation
           
236,809
 
 
               
General Obligation Unlimited (0.46%)
 
Brandon School District
               
4.500%   05/01/2029
   
20,000
     
20,062
 
Milpitas Unified School District
               
4.000%   08/01/2016
   
50,000
     
50,566
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 11

Insignia Macro Fund
Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Principal
   
Value
 
 
 
Amount
   
(Note 2)
 
General Obligation Unlimited (continued)
 
Sweet Home Central School District
           
4.500%   07/15/2016
 
$
100,000
   
$
101,054
 
Union & Alexander Counties Community High School District No 81
               
4.200%   12/01/2016
   
100,000
     
101,899
 
Total General Obligation Unlimited
           
273,581
 
 
               
Revenue Bonds (4.92%)
 
Beaufort - Jasper SC Water & Sewer System
               
5.000%   03/01/2019
   
90,000
     
94,449
 
Central Michigan University
               
4.500%   10/01/2035
   
60,000
     
60,000
 
Cinco Municipal Utility District No 1
               
2.000%   12/01/2016
   
50,000
     
50,401
 
Citizens Property Insurance Corp.
               
5.000%   06/01/2016
   
100,000
     
100,767
 
City of Oshkosh WI Storm Water Utility Revenue
               
2.625%   05/01/2016
   
125,000
     
125,165
 
Commonwealth Financing Authority
               
5.020%   06/01/2016
   
150,000
     
150,871
 
County of Contra Costa CA
               
5.010%   06/01/2016
   
65,000
     
65,310
 
Johnson County Public Building Commission
               
3.400%   09/01/2016
   
50,000
     
50,402
 
Kentucky Asset Liability Commission
               
3.928%   04/01/2016
   
350,000
     
350,000
 
Klickitat County Public Utility District No 1
               
4.702%   12/01/2016
   
500,000
     
511,724
 
Knox County School District Finance Corp.
               
2.000%   06/01/2016
   
50,000
     
50,104
 
Lee Memorial Health System
               
4.500%   04/01/2016
   
100,000
     
100,000
 
Louisiana State University & Agricultural & Mechanical College
               
4.000%   07/01/2016
   
100,000
     
100,776
 
Maryland Health & Higher Educational Facilities Authority Prefunded 5/15/2016 @ 100
               
4.750%   05/15/2042(b)
   
50,000
     
50,247
 
Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency
               
1.150%   12/01/2016
   
10,000
     
10,002
 
Metro Pier & Expo
               
5.500%   06/15/2016
   
50,000
     
50,397
 
Michigan State Building Authority
               
5.000%   10/15/2016
   
50,000
     
51,163
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

12
www.insigniafunds.com

Insignia Macro Fund
Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Principal
   
Value
 
 
 
Amount
   
(Note 2)
 
Revenue Bonds (continued)
 
New Jersey Economic Development Authority
           
1.096%   06/15/2016
 
$
145,000
   
$
144,860
 
New York State Dormitory Authority
               
5.000%   07/01/2016
   
50,000
     
50,511
 
Oak Hill School Building Corp.
               
4.000%   07/15/2016
   
100,000
     
100,984
 
Paulding County Industrial Building Authority
               
2.930%   08/01/2016
   
50,000
     
50,284
 
Permanent University Fund, Prefunded 7/01/2016 @ 100
               
4.500%   07/01/2035(b)
   
50,000
     
50,489
 
Port of Corpus Christi Authority of Nueces County
               
0.785%   12/01/2016
   
225,000
     
225,046
 
State of Ohio, Prefunded 4/01/2016 @ 100
               
5.000%   04/01/2020(b)
   
140,000
     
140,000
 
Texas Public Finance Authority
               
3.000%   10/15/2016
   
50,000
     
50,602
 
Western Carolina University
               
3.000%   06/01/2016
   
110,000
     
110,321
 
Total Revenue Bonds
           
2,894,875
 
 
               
TOTAL MUNICIPAL BONDS
         
(Cost $3,556,337)
           
3,555,897
 
 
               
U.S. TREASURY NOTES & BONDS (6.96%)
 
U.S. Treasury Notes
               
0.250%   05/15/2016
   
4,100,000
     
4,099,848
 
 
               
TOTAL U.S. TREASURY NOTES & BONDS
         
(Cost $4,099,824)
           
4,099,848
 
 
 
 
7-Day
         
Value
 
 
 
Yield
   
Shares
   
(Note 2)
 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (16.71%)
 
Money Market Funds (16.71%)
 
Morgan Stanley Liquidity Fund - Prime Portfolio, Institutional Class
   
0.41333
%
   
7,419,447
     
7,419,447
 
Morgan Stanley Liquidity Fund - Tax-Exempt Portfolio, Institutional Class
   
0.13388
%
   
2,420,168
     
2,420,168
 
Total Money Market Funds
                   
9,839,615
 
 
                       
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
                       
(Cost $9,839,615)
                   
9,839,615
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 13

Insignia Macro Fund
Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS (79.75%)
     
(Cost $47,004,471)
 
$
46,961,082
 
 
       
Other Assets In Excess Of Liabilities (20.25%)
   
11,920,790
(c) 
 
       
NET ASSETS (100.00%)
 
$
58,881,872
 
 
(a) Floating or variable rate security. Interest rate disclosed is that which is in effect at March 31, 2016.
(b) Prefunded Issues are bonds which are prerefunded and collateralized by U.S. Treasury securities held in escrow and used to pay principal and interest on tax exempt issues and to retire the bonds in full at the earliest refunding date.
(c) Includes cash which is being held as collateral for swap contracts.
 
Common Abbreviations: 
GMTN - Global Medium Term Notes.
LLC - Limited Liability Company.
LP - Limited Partnership
Ltd. - Limited
MTN - Medium Term Notes.
PLC - Public Limited Company.
Sr. - Senior.
Unsec. - Unsecured.
 
For Fund compliance purposes, the Fund's industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indices or ratings group indices, and/or as defined by Fund management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease. Industries are shown as a percentage of the Fund's net assets. (Unaudited)
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

14
www.insigniafunds.com

Insignia Macro Fund
Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
TOTAL RETURN SWAP CONTRACTS
 
Total return swap with Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch. The swap provides exposure to the total returns on a basket of independent managers that is calculated on a daily basis with reference to a customized index that is also proprietary to Deutsche Bank. The basket is comprised of a diversified collection of global macroeconomic and managed futures trading strategies including discretionary and systematic trading programs. Under the terms of the swap, the adviser has the ability to periodically adjust the notional level of the swap, the notional allocation to each manager and the mix of trading programs. The swap was effective on March 5, 2014 and has a term of five years unless earlier terminated. Early termination may be triggered by either party. In addition, the swap provides for a 0.50% fee to Deutsche Bank. (Notional Value $36,561,512)
 
Exposure by Manager
 
Underlying Manager
Exposure
Strategy Description
The Cambridge Strategy
16.54%
Quantitative | Fundamental & Technical Models
H2O Asset Management
15.98%
Discretionary Macro | Fundamental
QMS Capital Management
14.36%
Quantitative | Fundamental & Technical Models
Abraham Trading Company
13.10%
Quantitative | Fundamental & Technical Models
FORT
10.01%
Quantitative | Trend Anticipation
 
 
 
Unrealized Depreciation
 
 
 
$
(1,296,549
)
 
Total return swap with Newedge USA, LLC. The swap provides exposure to the total returns on a basket of independent managers that is calculated on a daily basis with reference to a customized index that is also proprietary to Newedge USA, LLC. The basket is comprised of a diversified collection of global macroeconomic and managed futures trading strategies including discretionary and systematic trading programs. Under the terms of the swap, the adviser has the ability to periodically adjust the notional level of the swap, the notional allocation to each manager, and the mix of trading programs. The swap was effective on October 15, 2014 and may be terminated by either party with at least two business days notice to the other party. In addition, the swap provides for a 0.50% fee to Newedge USA, LLC. (Notional Value $17,282,152)
 
Exposure by Manager
 
Underlying Manager
Exposure
Strategy Description
Willowbridge Associates
15.83%
Discretionary Macro | Fundamental
Tialoc Capital
14.18%
Discretionary Macro | Fundamental
 
   
Unrealized Depreciation
 
   
$
(73,346
)
 
 
 
Unrealized Depreciation
 
Total Net Unrealized Depreciation on Swap Contracts
 
$
(1,369,895
)
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 15

Insignia Macro Fund
Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
     
ASSETS:
     
Investments, at value (cost $47,004,471)
 
$
46,961,082
 
Cash
   
3,833,719
 
Deposit with broker for swap contracts (Note 3)
   
5,303,677
 
Receivable for swap contract payments
   
4,652,529
 
Receivable for shares sold
   
79,449
 
Interest and dividends receivable
   
186,516
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
25,571
 
Total Assets
   
61,042,543
 
 
       
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for swap contract payments
   
85,923
 
Unrealized depreciation on swap contracts
   
1,369,895
 
Payable for investments purchased
   
521,125
 
Payable for shares redeemed
   
6,000
 
Payable to advisor
   
55,219
 
Professional fees payable
   
22,234
 
Payable for administration fees
   
39,925
 
Payable to Trustees
   
7,971
 
Payable to Chief Compliance Officer
   
6,426
 
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
   
45,953
 
Total Liabilities
   
2,160,671
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
58,881,872
 
 
       
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:
 
Paid-in capital (Note 7)
 
$
60,359,756
 
Accumulated net investment loss
   
(312,975
)
Accumulated net realized gain on investments and swap contracts
   
248,375
 
Net unrealized depreciation on investments and swap contracts
   
(1,413,284
)
NET ASSETS
 
$
58,881,872
 
 
       
PRICING OF SHARES
       
Class A:
 
Net Asset Value, offering and redemption price per share
 
$
10.06
 
Net Assets
 
$
296,685
 
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding
   
29,493
 
Maximum offering price per share (NAV/0.945, based on maximum sales charge of 5.50% of the offering price)
 
$
10.65
 
Class I:
 
Net Asset Value, offering and redemption price per share
 
$
10.06
 
Net Assets
 
$
58,585,187
 
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding
   
5,826,127
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

16
www.insigniafunds.com

Insignia Macro Fund Consolidated Statement of Operations

For the Six Months ended March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Interest
 
$
224,560
 
Dividends
   
7,396
 
Total Investment Income
   
231,956
 
 
       
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fee (Note 8)
   
388,970
 
Administration fee
   
93,408
 
Distribution and service fees
       
Class A
   
364
 
Custodian fee
   
7,897
 
Legal fees
   
19,320
 
Audit and tax fees
   
10,737
 
Transfer agent fee
   
22,454
 
Trustees fees and expenses
   
8,535
 
Registration fees
   
11,436
 
Printing fees
   
3,040
 
Chief Compliance Officer fee
   
12,851
 
Insurance expense
   
4,500
 
Other expenses
   
7,994
 
Total Expenses
   
591,506
 
Less fees waived/reimbursed by investment advisor
       
Class A
   
(222
)
Class I
   
(46,362
)
Total fees waived/reimbursed by investment adviser (Note 8)
   
(46,584
)
Net Expenses
   
544,922
 
NET INVESTMENT LOSS
   
(312,966
)
 
       
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS:
       
Net realized gain/(loss) on:
       
Investments
   
(14,406
)
Swap contracts
   
414,229
 
Net realized gain
   
399,823
 
 
       
Change in unrealized (depreciation) on:
       
Investments
   
4,651
 
Swap contracts
   
(989,474
)
Net change
   
(984,823
)
 
       
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED LOSS ON INVESTMENTS
   
(585,000
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(897,966
)
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
17

Insignia Macro Fund Consolidated Statement of Changes in Net Assets

 
 
 
Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment loss
 
$
(312,966
)
 
$
(611,951
)
Net realized gain on investments and swap contracts
   
399,823
     
3,781,022
 
Net change in unrealized depreciation on investments and swap contracts
   
(984,823
)
   
(1,282,710
)
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations
   
(897,966
)
   
1,886,361
 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
From net investment income
               
Advisor Class
   
(16,366
)
   
(465
)
Institutional Class
   
(3,584,295
)
   
(193,741
)
From net realized gains on investments
               
Advisor Class
   
     
(81
)
Institutional Class
   
     
(30,286
)
Total distributions
   
(3,600,661
)
   
(224,573
)
 
               
BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS (Note 7):
               
Class A
               
Shares sold
   
29,500
     
239,309
 
Dividends reinvested
   
16,367
     
546
 
Shares redeemed
   
(2,385
)
   
(51,279
)
Net increase from beneficial share transactions
   
43,482
     
188,576
 
Class I
               
Shares sold
   
4,925,743
     
43,664,518
 
Dividends reinvested
   
718,228
     
10,918
 
Shares redeemed
   
(6,833,013
)
   
(5,102,475
)
Redemption fees
   
24
     
425
 
Net increase/(decrease) from beneficial share transactions
   
(1,189,018
)
   
38,573,386
 
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets
   
(5,644,163
)
   
40,423,750
 
 
               
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
64,526,035
     
24,102,285
 
End of period(including accumulated net investment income/(loss) of $(312,975) and $3,600,652)
 
$
58,881,872
   
$
64,526,035
 
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Page Intentionally Left Blank
 
 

Insignia Macro Fund - Class A Consolidated Financial Highlights

For a share outstanding through the periods presented.
 
 
 
Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2014(a)
 
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
10.82
   
$
10.42
   
$
10.00
 
 
                       
INCOME/(LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS:
                       
Net investment loss(b)
   
(0.07
)
   
(0.16
)
   
(0.08
)
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments and swap contracts
   
(0.09
)
   
0.61
     
0.50
 
Total from investment operations
   
(0.16
)
   
0.45
     
0.42
 
 
                       
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
                       
From investment income
   
(0.60
)
   
(0.04
)
   
 
From net realized gain on investments
   
     
(0.01
)
   
 
Total distributions
   
(0.60
)
   
(0.05
)
   
 
NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSET VALUE
   
(0.76
)
   
0.40
     
0.42
 
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD
 
$
10.06
   
$
10.82
   
$
10.42
 
 
                       
TOTAL RETURN(c)
   
(1.55
%)
   
4.34
%
   
4.20
%
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Insignia Macro Fund - Class A Consolidated Financial Highlights

For a share outstanding through the periods presented.
 
 
 
Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2014(a)
 
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
                 
Net assets, end of period (in 000s)
 
$
297
   
$
274
   
$
85
 
 
                       
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
                       
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
2.15
%(d)
   
2.40
%
   
80.48
%(d)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
2.00
%(d)
   
1.96
%(e)
   
1.75
%(d)
Net investment loss including reimbursement/waiver
   
(1.25
%)(d)
   
(1.44
%)
   
(1.03
%)(d)
 
                       
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE(f)
   
49
%
   
119
%
   
43
%
 
 (a)
Commenced operations on January 2, 2014.
 (b)
Calculated using the average shares method.
 (c)
Total returns are for the period indicated and have not been annualized.  Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived during the period.  Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.  Returns shown exclude any applicable sales charge.
 (d)
Annualized.
 (e)
Contractual expense limitation changed from 1.75% to 2.00% effective February 1, 2015.
 (f)
Portfolio turnover rate for periods less than one full year have not been annualized.
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report | March 31, 2016
21
 

Insignia Macro Fund - Class I Consolidated Financial Highlights

For a share outstanding through the periods presented.
 
 
 
Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2014(a)
 
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD
 
$
10.82
   
$
10.42
   
$
10.00
 
 
                       
INCOME/(LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS:
                       
Net investment loss(b)
   
(0.05
)
   
(0.13
)
   
(0.06
)
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments and swap contracts
   
(0.10
)
   
0.59
     
0.48
 
Total from investment operations
   
(0.15
)
   
0.46
     
0.42
 
 
                       
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS:
                       
From investment income
   
(0.61
)
   
(0.05
)
   
 
From net realized gain on investments
   
     
(0.01
)
   
 
Total distributions
   
(0.61
)
   
(0.06
)
   
 
REDEMPTION FEES (Note 7)
   
0.00
(c) 
   
0.00
(c) 
   
0.00
(c) 
NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSET VALUE
   
(0.76
)
   
0.40
     
0.42
 
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD
 
$
10.06
   
$
10.82
   
$
10.42
 
 
                       
TOTAL RETURN(d)
   
(1.49
%)
   
4.39
%
   
4.20
%
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Insignia Macro Fund - Class I Consolidated Financial Highlights

For a share outstanding through the periods presented.
 
 
 
Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
   
For the
Period Ended
September 30, 2014(a)
 
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA:
                 
Net assets, end of period (in 000s)
 
$
58,585
   
$
64,252
   
$
24,017
 
 
                       
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
                       
Operating expenses excluding reimbursement/waiver
   
1.90
%(e)
   
2.17
%
   
3.62
%(e)
Operating expenses including reimbursement/waiver
   
1.75
%(e)
   
1.69
%(f)
   
1.50
%(e)
Net investment loss including reimbursement/waiver
   
(1.00%
)(e)
   
(1.18
%)
   
(0.85%
)(e)
 
                       
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE(g)
   
49
%
   
119
%
   
43
%
 
 (a)
Commenced operations on January 2, 2014.
 (b)
Calculated using the average shares method.
 (c)
Less than $0.005 per share.
 (d)
Total returns are for the period indicated and have not been annualized.  Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived during the period.  Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.  
 (e)
Annualized.
 (f)
Contractual expense limitation changed from 1.50% to 1.75% effective February 1, 2015.
 (g)
Portfolio turnover rate for periods less than one full year have not been annualized.
 
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 23
 

Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
1. ORGANIZATION

 
ALPS Series Trust (the “Trust”), a Delaware statutory trust, is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). As of March 31, 2016, the Trust had 8 registered funds. This semi-annual report describes the Insignia Macro Fund (the “Fund”). The Fund’s primary investment objective is to seek long-term risk-adjusted total return. The Fund currently offers Class A shares and Class I shares. Each share class has identical rights to earnings, assets and voting privileges, except for class specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only individual classes. The Board of Trustees (the “Board”) may establish additional funds and classes of shares at any time in the future without shareholder approval.
 
Basis of Consolidation: Insignia Global Macro Offshore Ltd. (the “Subsidiary”), a Cayman Islands exempted company, was incorporated on September 27, 2013 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Fund. The Subsidiary acts as an investment vehicle for the Fund in order to effect certain commodity-related investments on behalf of the Fund. The Fund is the sole shareholder of the Subsidiary, and it is intended that the Fund will remain the sole shareholder and will continue to wholly own and control the Subsidiary. Under the Articles of Association of the Subsidiary, shares issued by the Subsidiary confer upon a shareholder the right to vote at general meetings of the Subsidiary and certain rights in connection with any winding-up or repayment of capital, as well as the right to participate in the profits or assets of the Subsidiary. The Fund may invest up to 25% of its total assets in shares of the Subsidiary. As a wholly owned subsidiary of the Fund, the investments of the Subsidiary are included in the consolidated statements of investments and financial highlights of the Fund. All investments held by the Subsidiary are disclosed in the accounts of the Fund. As of March 31, 2016, net assets of the Fund were $58,881,872, of which $10,511,165, or 17.85%, represented the Fund’s ownership of all issued shares and voting rights of the Subsidiary.
 
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 
The accompanying financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for investment companies (“U.S. GAAP”). The Fund is considered an investment company for financial reporting purposes. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in preparation of its financial statements.
 
Investment Valuation: The Fund generally values its securities based on market prices determined at the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”), normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, on each day the NYSE is open for trading.
 
Over-the-counter swap contracts for which market quotations are readily available are valued based on quotes received from independent pricing services or dealers that make markets in such securities.
 

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Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Redeemable securities issued by open-end registered investment companies are valued at the investment company’s applicable net asset value with the exception of exchange-traded open-end investment companies, which are priced as equity securities.
 
The market price for debt obligations is generally the price supplied by an independent third-party pricing service approved by the Board, which may use a matrix, formula or other objective method that takes into consideration quotations from dealers, market transactions in comparable investments, market indices and yield curves. If vendors are unable to supply a price, or if the price supplied is deemed to be unreliable, the market price may be determined using quotations received from one or more broker dealers that make a market in the security.
 
When such prices or quotations are not available, or when the fair value committee appointed by the Board believes that they are unreliable, securities may be priced using fair value procedures approved by the Board.
 
Fair Value Measurements: The Fund discloses the classification of its fair value measurements following a three-tier hierarchy based on the inputs used to measure fair value. Inputs refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity. Unobservable inputs reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability that are developed based on the best information available.
 
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments as of the end of the reporting period. When inputs used fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the hierarchy within which the fair value measurement falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The designated input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with these investments. These inputs are categorized in the following hierarchy under applicable financial accounting standards:
 
Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical investments, unrestricted assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access at the measurement date;
 
Level 2 – Quoted prices which are not active, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable (either directly or indirectly) for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; and
 
Level 3 – Significant unobservable prices or inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments) where there is little or no market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 25


Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of March 31, 2016:
 
Investments in Securities at Value
 
Level 1 - Unadjusted Quoted Prices
   
Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs
   
Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs
   
Total
 
Asset-Backed Securities
 
$
   
$
7,251,253
   
$
   
$
7,251,253
 
Corporate Bonds
                               
Basic Materials
   
     
956,652
     
     
956,652
 
Communications
   
     
2,672,229
     
     
2,672,229
 
Consumer, Cyclical
   
     
2,219,496
     
     
2,219,496
 
Consumer, Non-cyclical
   
     
1,778,196
     
     
1,778,196
 
Energy
   
     
2,301,789
     
     
2,301,789
 
Financial
   
     
4,950,664
     
     
4,950,664
 
Technology
   
     
479,019
     
     
479,019
 
Utilities
   
     
1,267,768
     
     
1,267,768
 
Mortgage-Backed Securities
   
     
5,588,656
     
     
5,588,656
 
Municipal Bonds
   
     
3,555,897
     
     
3,555,897
 
U.S. Treasury Notes & Bonds
   
     
4,099,848
     
     
4,099,848
 
Short-Term Investments
   
9,839,615
     
     
     
9,839,615
 
TOTAL
 
$
9,839,615
   
$
37,121,467
   
$
   
$
46,961,082
 
 
 
 
Valuation Inputs
       
Other Financial Instruments
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Liabilities:
 
Total Return Swap Contracts
 
$
   
$
(1,369,895
)
 
$
   
$
(1,369,895
)
Total
 
$
   
$
(1,369,895
)
 
$
   
$
(1,369,895
)
 
The Fund recognizes transfers between levels as of the end of the period. For the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 securities. There were no Level 3 securities held during the period.
 
Trust Expenses: Some expenses of the Trust can be directly attributed to the Fund. Expenses that cannot be directly attributed to the Fund are apportioned among all funds in the Trust based on average net assets of each fund.
 
Fund Expenses: Some expenses can be directly attributed to the Fund and are apportioned among the classes based on average net assets of each class.
 
Class Expenses: Expenses that are specific to a class of shares are charged directly to that share class. Fees provided under the distribution (Rule 12b-1) and/or shareholder service plans for a particular class of the Fund are charged to the operations of such class.
 
Federal Income Taxes: The Fund complies with the requirements under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies and intends to distribute substantially all of its net taxable income and net capital gains, if any, each year so that it will not be subject to excise tax on undistributed income and gains. The Fund is not subject to income taxes to the extent such distributions are made.
 

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Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
As of and during the period ended March 31, 2016, the Fund did not have a liability for any unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying financial statements. The Fund files U.S. federal, state and local income tax returns as required. The Fund’s tax returns are subject to examination by the relevant tax authorities until expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, which is generally three years after the filing of the tax return for federal purposes and four years for most state returns. If applicable, the Fund’s administrator has analyzed the Fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state income tax returns for all open tax years and has concluded that as of March 31, 2016, no provision for income tax is required in the Fund’s financial statements related to these tax positions.
 
Investment Transactions and Investment Income: Investment transactions are accounted for on the date the investments are purchased or sold (trade date basis). Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are reported on an identified cost basis. Interest income, which includes accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is accrued and recorded as earned. Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date, or for certain foreign securities, as soon as information is available to the Fund. All of the realized and unrealized gains and losses and net investment income are allocated daily to each class in proportion to its average daily net assets.
 
Foreign Securities: The Fund may directly purchase securities of foreign issuers. Investing in securities of foreign issuers involves special risks not typically associated with investing in securities of U.S. issuers. The risks include possible reevaluation of currencies, the inability to repatriate foreign currency, less complete financial information about companies and possible future adverse political and economic developments. Moreover, securities of many foreign issuers and their markets may be less liquid and their prices more volatile than those of securities of comparable U.S. issuers.
 
Foreign Currency Translation: The books and records of the Fund are maintained in U.S. dollars. Investment valuations and other assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign currencies are converted each business day into U.S. dollars based upon current exchange rates. The portion of realized and unrealized gains or losses on investments due to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed and is included in realized and unrealized gains or losses on investments, when applicable.
 
Foreign Exchange Transactions: The Fund may enter into foreign currency spot contracts to facilitate transactions in foreign securities or to convert foreign currency receipts into U.S. dollars. A foreign currency spot contract is an agreement between two parties to buy and sell currencies at the current market rate, for settlement generally within two business days. The U.S. dollar value of the contracts is determined using current currency exchange rates supplied by a pricing service. The contract is marked-to-market daily for settlements beyond one day and any change in market value is recorded as an unrealized gain or loss. When the contract is closed, the Fund records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value on the open and close date. Losses may arise from changes in the value of the foreign currency, or if the counterparties do not perform under the contract’s terms. The maximum potential loss from such contracts is the aggregate face value in U.S. dollars at the time the contract was opened.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 27


Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Distributions to Shareholders: The Fund normally pays dividends, if any, and distributes capital gains, if any, on an annual basis. Income dividend distributions are derived from interest and other income the Fund receives from its investments, including short term capital gains. Long term capital gain distributions are derived from gains realized when the Fund sells a security it has owned for more than one year. The Fund may make additional distributions and dividends at other times if its portfolio manager or managers believe doing so may be necessary for the Fund to avoid or reduce taxes. Net investment income/(loss) and net realized gain/(loss) may differ for financial statement and tax purposes.
 
3. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 
The Fund’s investment objectives permit the Fund to enter into various types of derivatives contracts, including, but not limited to, total return swaps and structured notes. In doing so, the Fund will employ strategies in differing combinations to permit it to increase, decrease, or change the level or types of exposure to market factors. Central to those strategies are features inherent in derivatives that make them more attractive for this purpose than equity or debt securities; they require little or no initial cash investment, they can focus exposure on only certain selected risk factors, and they may not require the ultimate receipt or delivery of the underlying security (or securities) to the contract. This may allow the Fund to pursue its objectives more quickly and efficiently than if it were to make direct purchases or sales of securities capable of affecting a similar response to market factors.
 
Risk of Investing in Derivatives: The Fund’s use of derivatives can result in losses due to unanticipated changes in the market risk factors and the overall market. In instances where the Fund is using derivatives to decrease, or hedge, exposures to market risk factors for securities held by the Fund, there are also risks that those derivatives may not perform as expected resulting in losses for the combined or hedged positions.
 
Derivatives may have little or no initial cash investment relative to their market value exposure and therefore can produce significant gains or losses in excess of their cost. This use of embedded leverage allows the Fund to increase its market value exposure relative to its net assets and can substantially increase the volatility of the Fund’s performance.
 
Additional associated risks from investing in derivatives also exist and potentially could have significant effects on the valuation of the derivative and the Fund. Typically, the associated risks are not the risks that the Fund is attempting to increase or decrease exposure to, per its investment objective, but are the additional risks from investing in derivatives.
 
Examples of these associated risks are liquidity risk, which is the risk that the Fund will not be able to sell or close out the derivative in a timely manner, and counterparty credit risk, which is the risk that the counterparty will not fulfill its obligation to the Fund. In addition, use of derivatives may increase or decrease exposure to the following risk factors:
 
Equity Risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market. Associated risks can be different for each type of derivative and are discussed by each derivative type in the notes that follow.


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Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)

Commodity Risk: Exposure to the commodities markets may subject the Fund to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities. Prices of various commodities may also be affected by factors, such as drought, floods, weather, livestock disease, embargoes, tariffs and other regulatory developments, which are unpredictable. The prices of commodities can also fluctuate widely due to supply and demand disruptions in major producing or consuming regions.
 
Foreign Currency Risk: Currency trading involves significant risks, including market risk, interest rate risk, country risk, counterparty credit risk and short sale risk. Market risk results from the price movement of foreign currency values in response to shifting market supply and demand.
 
Interest Rate Risk: Interest rate risk is the risk that fixed income securities will decline in value because of changes in interest rates. As nominal interest rates rise, the value of fixed income securities held by the Fund are likely to decrease. Securities with longer durations tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates, and are usually more volatile than equity securities.
 
Swap Contracts: The Fund may enter into swap transactions to seek to increase total return. Risks may arise as a result of the failure of the counterparty to the swap contract to comply with the terms of the swap contract. The loss incurred by the failure of a counterparty is generally limited to the net payment to be received by the Fund and/or the termination value at the end of the contract.
 
Therefore, the Fund considers the creditworthiness of each counterparty to a contract in evaluating potential credit risk. Additionally, risks may arise from unanticipated movements in interest rates or in the value of the underlying reference asset or index. Entering into these agreements involves, to varying degrees, market risk, liquidity risk and elements of credit, legal and documentation risk that are not directly reflected in the amounts recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
 
The Fund may pay or receive cash as collateral on these contracts which may be recorded as an asset and/or liability. The Fund must set aside liquid assets, or engage in other appropriate measures, to cover its obligations under these contracts. Swaps are marked to market daily using either pricing vendor quotations, counterparty prices or model prices and the change in value, if any, is recorded as an unrealized gain or loss. Upfront payments made and/or received by the Fund are recorded as an asset and/or liability and realized gains or losses are recognized ratably over the contract’s term/event, with the exception of forward starting interest rate swaps, whose realized gains or losses are recognized ratably from the effective start date. Periodic payments received or made on swap contracts are recorded as realized gains or losses. Gains or losses are realized upon termination of a swap contract and are recorded on the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund invests in total return swaps to obtain exposure to a security or market without owning such security or investing directly in that market. Total return swaps are agreements in which there is an exchange of cash flows whereby one party commits to make payments based on the total return (coupons plus capital gains/losses) of an underlying instrument in exchange for fixed or floating rate interest payments. To the extent the total return of the instrument or index underlying the transaction exceeds or falls short of the offsetting interest rate obligation, the Fund will receive a payment from or make a payment to the counterparty. Swap agreements held at March 31, 2016 are disclosed in the Consolidated Portfolio of Investments.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
 29

 

Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
The average notional shares of the Fund’s swap positions for the period ended March 31, 2016 was $56,445,288.
 
Derivative Instruments: The following tables disclose the amounts related to the Fund’s use of derivative instruments.
 
The effect of derivative instruments on the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of March 31, 2016:
 
Risk Exposure
Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities Location
 
Liability Derivatives Gross Unrealized Depreciation
 
Commodity Contracts (total return swap contracts)
Unrealized depreciation on swap contract 
 
$
(1,369,895
)
Total
 
 
$
(1,369,895
)
 
The effect of derivative instruments on the Consolidated Statement of Operations for the period ended March 31, 2016:
 
Risk Exposure
Consolidated Statement of Operations Location
 
Realized Gain on Derivatives Recognized
   
Change in Unrealized Depreciation on Derivatives Recognized
 
Commodity Contracts (total return swap contracts)
Net realized gain/(loss) on Swap Contracts/ Change in unrealized appreciation/ (depreciation) on swap contracts 
 
$
414,229
   
$
(989,474
)
Total
 
 
$
414,229
   
$
(989,474
)
 
4. OFFSETTING AGREEMENTS

 
Certain derivative contracts are executed under standardized netting agreements. A derivative netting arrangement creates an enforceable right of set-off that becomes effective, and affects the realization of settlement on individual assets, liabilities and collateral amounts, only following a specified event of default or early termination. Default events may include the failure to make payments or deliver securities timely, material adverse changes in financial condition or insolvency, the breach of minimum regulatory capital requirements, or loss of license, charter or other legal authorization necessary to perform under the contract. The Fund may manage counterparty risk by entering into enforceable collateral arrangements with counterparties to securities lending agreements. These agreements mitigate counterparty credit risk by providing for a single net settlement with a counterparty of all financial transactions covered by the agreement in an event of default as defined under such agreement.


30
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Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
The following table presents derivative financial instruments and securities lending arrangements that are subject to enforceable netting arrangements, collateral arrangements or other similar agreements as of March 31, 2016.
 
 
                   
Gross Amounts Not Offset in the Consolidated
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities
 
Description
 
Gross Amounts of Recognized Liabilities
   
Gross Amounts Offset in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities
   
Net Amounts Presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities
   
Financial Instruments (a)
   
Cash Collateral Pledged(a)
   
Net Amount Payable
 
Liabilities
                                   
Total Return Swap Contracts
 
$
1,369,895
   
$
   
$
1,369,895
   
$
   
$
(1,369,895
)
 
$
 
Total
 
$
1,369,895
   
$
   
$
1,369,895
   
$
   
$
(1,369,895
)
 
$
 
 
(a) These amounts are limited to the derivative liability balance and, accordingly, do not include excess collateral pledged.
 
5. TAX BASIS INFORMATION

 
Tax Basis of Distributions to Shareholders: The character of distributions made during the period from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from its ultimate characterization for federal income tax purposes. Also, due to the timing of dividend distributions, the fiscal year in which amounts are distributed may differ from the fiscal year in which the income or realized gain were recorded by the Fund. The amounts and characteristics of tax basis distributions and composition of distributable earnings/(accumulated losses) are finalized at fiscal year-end. Accordingly, tax basis balances have not been determined as of the date of the semi-annual.


Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
31


Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
The tax character of distributions paid by the Fund for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015 and the fiscal period ended September 30, 2014 were as follows:

Distributions Paid From:
 
2015
   
2014
 
Ordinary Income
 
$
224,573
   
$
 
Total
 
$
224,573
   
$
 

Unrealized Appreciation and Depreciation on Investments: As of March 31, 2016, the aggregate cost of investments, gross unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) and net unrealized appreciation for Federal tax purposes were as follows:

Gross unrealized appreciation (excess of value over tax cost)
 
$
33,255
 
Gross unrealized depreciation (excess of tax cost over value)
   
(76,644
)
Net unrealized depreciation
 
$
(43,389
)
Cost of investments for income tax purposes
 
$
47,004,471
 

6. SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS

Purchases and sales of securities, excluding short-term securities, during the period ended March 31, 2016 were as follows:

Purchases
of Securities
   
Proceeds From
Sales of Securities
 
$
17,700,590
   
$
23,487,989
 
 
Purchases and sales of U.S. Government Obligations during the period ended March 31, 2016 were as follows:
 
Purchases
of Securities
   
Proceeds From
Sales of Securities
 
$
2,699,798
   
$
3,900,000
 

7. BENEFICIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

The capitalization of the Trust consists of an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest with no par value per share. Holders of the shares of the Fund have one vote for each share held and a proportionate fraction of a vote for each fractional share. All shares issued and outstanding are fully paid and are transferable and redeemable at the option of the shareholder. Shares have no pre-emptive rights. Neither the Fund nor any of its creditors has the right to require shareholders to pay any additional amounts solely because the shareholder owns the shares.

Shares redeemed within 60 days of purchase may incur a 1.00% short-term redemption fee deducted from the redemption amount. For the period ended March 31, 2016, the redemption fees charged by the Fund are presented in the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets.
 

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Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Transactions in common shares were as follows:

   
Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2016
(Unaudited)
   
For the
Year Ended
September 30, 2015
 
Class A:
           
Shares sold
   
2,801
     
21,866
 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions to shareholders
   
1,600
     
52
 
Shares redeemed
   
(265
)
   
(4,723
)
Net increase from share transactions
   
4,136
     
17,195
 
                 
Class I:
               
Shares sold
   
467,598
     
4,102,816
 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions to shareholders
   
70,208
     
1,032
 
Shares redeemed
   
(651,560
)
   
(469,126
)
Net increase/(decrease) from share transactions
   
(113,754
)
   
3,634,722
 

Control is defined by the 1940 Act as the beneficial ownership, either directly or through one or more controlled companies, of more than 25% of the voting securities of a company. The Fund has one unaffiliated shareholder representing approximately 69% of total Fund shares. Investment activities of this shareholder could have a material impact on the Fund.

8. MANAGEMENT AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Investment Advisory: Meritage Capital, LLC (“Meritage Capital” or the “Adviser”), subject to the authority of the Board, is responsible for the overall management and administration of the Fund’s business affairs. The Adviser has delegated a portion of the daily management of the Fund to Sage Advisory Services, Ltd. Co. (the “Sub-Adviser”). The Adviser and the Sub-Adviser manage the investments of the Fund in accordance with the Fund’s investment objective, policies and limitations and investment guidelines established jointly by the Adviser and the Trustees.

Pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement (the “Advisory Agreement”) with the Adviser, the Fund pays the Adviser an annual management fee of 1.25% based on the Fund’s average daily net assets during the month. Pursuant to an Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement”), the Adviser pays the Sub-Adviser an annual sub-advisory management fee of 0.10% for the first $25 million, 0.18% for the subsequent $25 million and 0.10% once assets have reached over $50 million, with a minimum annual fee of $25,000. These management fees are based on the Fund’s average daily net assets during the month and are paid on a monthly basis. The Adviser is required to pay all fees due to the Sub-Adviser out of the management fee the Adviser receives from the Fund. The initial term for both the Advisory Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement is two years. The Board may extend the Advisory Agreement and/or the Sub-Advisory Agreement for additional one-year terms. The Board, shareholders of the Fund or the Adviser may terminate the Advisory Agreement or the Sub-Advisory Agreement upon 60 days’ notice.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
33
 


Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Pursuant to a fee waiver letter agreement (the “Fee Waiver Agreement”), the Adviser has contractually agreed to limit the amount of the Fund’s Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses, exclusive of Distribution and Service (12b-1) fees, Shareholder Service Fees, Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, brokerage expenses, interest expenses, taxes and extraordinary expenses, to 1.75% of the Fund’s average daily net assets for Class A and Class I shares. The Fee Waiver Agreement is in effect through January 31, 2017. The Adviser will be permitted to recover, on a class-by-class basis, expenses it has borne through the Fee Waiver Agreement to the extent that the Fund’s expenses in later periods fall below the annual rates set forth in the Fee Waiver Agreement. The Fund will not be obligated to pay any such deferred fees and expenses more than three years after the end of the fiscal year in which the fees and expense were deferred. The Adviser may not discontinue the Fee Waiver Agreement without the approval by the Fund’s Board.

For the six-month period ended March 31, 2016, the fee waivers and/or reimbursements were as follows:

   
Fees Waived/
Reimbursed by
Adviser
 
Class A
 
$
(222
)
Class I
   
(46,362
)
TOTAL
 
$
(46,584
)

As of September 30, 2015, the balances of recoupable expenses were as follows:

   
Expires 2018
   
Expires 2017
 
Class A
 
$
(849
)
 
$
(27,075
)
Class I
   
(248,402
)
   
(272,155
)

Administrator: ALPS Fund Services, Inc (“ALPS”) (an affiliate of ALPS Distributors, Inc.) serves as administrator to the Fund. The Fund has agreed to pay expenses incurred in connection with its administrative activities. Pursuant to the Administration, Bookkeeping and Pricing Services Agreement with the Trust, ALPS will provide operational services to the Fund including, but not limited to, fund accounting and fund administration and generally assist in the Fund’s operations. The Fund’s administration fee is accrued on a daily basis and paid monthly. The officers of the Trust are employees of ALPS. Administration fees paid by the Fund for the period ended March 31, 2016 are disclosed in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. ALPS is reimbursed by the Fund for certain out-of-pocket expenses.

Transfer Agent: ALPS serves as transfer agent for the Fund under a Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund plus fees for open accounts and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.
 

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Insignia Macro Fund
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Compliance Services: ALPS provides services as the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer to monitor and test the policies and procedures of the Fund in conjunction with requirements under Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act pursuant to a Chief Compliance Officer Services Agreement with the Trust. Under this agreement, ALPS is paid an annual fee for services performed on behalf of the Fund and is reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses.

Distribution: ALPS Distributors, Inc. (the “Distributor”) (an affiliate of ALPS) acts as the principal underwriter of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with the Trust. Shares of the Fund are offered on a continuous basis through the Distributor, as agent of the Fund. The Distributor is not obligated to sell any particular amount of shares and is not entitled to any compensation for its services as the Fund’s principal underwriter pursuant to the Distribution Agreement.

The Fund has adopted a separate plan of distribution for Class A shares pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the “Plan”). The Plan allows the Fund to use Class A assets to pay fees in connection with the distribution and marketing of Class A shares and/or the provision of shareholder services to Class A shareholders. The Plan permits payment for services in connection with the administration of plans or programs that use Class A shares of the Fund as their funding medium and for related expenses. The Plan permits the Fund to make total payments at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of a Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to its Class A shares. Because these fees are paid out of the Fund’s Class A assets on an ongoing basis, over time they will increase the cost of an investment in Class A shares, and Plan fees may cost an investor more than other types of sales charges. Plan fees are shown as distribution and service fees on the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

9. TRUSTEES

As of March 31, 2016, there were four Trustees, three of whom are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”). The Independent Trustees receive a quarterly retainer of $4,000, plus $2,000 for each regular Board or Committee meeting attended, $2,000 for each special telephonic Board or Committee meeting attended and $2,000 for each special in-person Board meeting attended. The Independent Trustees are also reimbursed for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at meetings and for meeting-related expenses. Officers of the Trust and Trustees who are interested persons of the Trust receive no salary or fees from the Trust.

10. INDEMNIFICATIONS

Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts with service providers that may contain general indemnification clauses which may permit indemnification to the extent permissible under applicable law. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Trust that have not yet occurred.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
35
 


Insignia Macro Fund
Additional Information

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
1. PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND VOTING RECORD

A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge, upon request, (i) by calling the Fund (toll-free) at 1-855-674-4642 or (ii) on the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available (i) without charge, upon request, by calling the Fund (toll-free) at 1-855-674-4642 or (ii) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

2. PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS

The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Forms N-Q are available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C., and information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.

2. DISCLOSURE REGARDING RENEWAL AND APPROVAL OF FUND ADVISORY AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

On November 19, 2015, the Trustees met in person to discuss, among other things, the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and Meritage Capital (the “Advisory Agreement”) and the Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement among the Trust, Meritage Capital and the Sub-Adviser (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement”) in accordance with Section 15(c) of the 1940 Act. The Independent Trustees met with independent legal counsel during executive session and discussed the Advisory Agreement, the Sub-Advisory Agreement and other related materials.

In renewing and approving the Advisory Agreement with Meritage Capital and the Sub-Advisory Agreement with the Sub-Adviser, the Trustees, including all of the Independent Trustees, considered the following factors with respect to the Fund:

Investment Advisory and Sub-Advisory Fee Rates: The Trustees reviewed and considered (i) the contractual annual advisory fee paid by the Fund to Meritage Capital of 1.25% of the Fund’s daily average net assets, and (ii) the contractual annual sub-advisory fee paid by Meritage Capital to the Sub-Adviser of 0.10% on the first $25 million, 0.18% on the next $25 million and 0.10% over $50 million, with an annual minimum of $25,000, in light of the extent and quality of the advisory services to be provided by each of Meritage Capital and the Sub-Adviser to the Fund.

The Trustees considered the information they received comparing the Fund’s contractual annual advisory fee and overall expenses with those of funds in the peer group selected by an independent provider of investment company data. The Trustees noted that the Fund’s contractual annual advisory fee of 1.25% is below the peer group average and the same as the peer group median. The Trustees further noted the following: (i) the Fund’s Class A total expense ratio of 2.00% is below the peer group average and peer group median; and (ii) the Fund’s Class I total expense ratio of 1.75% is below the peer group average and peer group median.
 

36 
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Insignia Macro Fund
Additional Information

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services under the Advisory and Sub-Advisory Agreements: The Trustees received and considered information regarding the nature, extent and quality of services provided to the Fund under the Advisory Agreement with Meritage Capital and under the Sub-Advisory Agreement with the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees reviewed certain background materials supplied by Meritage Capital and the Sub-Adviser in their presentations, including their Forms ADV.

The Trustees reviewed and considered Meritage Capital’s and the Sub-Adviser’s investment advisory personnel, their history as asset managers and their performance and the amount of assets currently under management by Meritage Capital and the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees also reviewed the research and decision-making processes utilized by Meritage Capital and the Sub-Adviser, including the methods adopted to seek to achieve compliance with the investment objective, policies and restrictions of the Fund.

The Trustees considered the background and experience of Meritage Capital’s and the Sub-Adviser’s management in connection with the Fund, including reviewing the qualifications, backgrounds and responsibilities of the management team primarily responsible for the day-to-day portfolio management of the Fund and the extent of the resources devoted to research and analysis of actual and potential investments. The Trustees also reviewed, among other things, Meritage Capital’s and the Sub-Adviser’s Codes of Ethics.

Performance: The Trustees reviewed performance information for the Fund’s Class A and Class I shares for the one-year and year-to-date periods ended September 30, 2015. That review included a comparison of the Fund’s performance to the performance of a peer group of comparable funds selected by an independent provider of investment company data. The Trustees noted that, for the one-year period ended September 30, 2015, the performance of the Fund’s Class A shares was below the peer group average and the same as the peer group median, and the performance of the Fund’s Class I shares was below the peer group average and slightly below the peer group median. The Trustees also considered Meritage Capital’s discussion of the top contributors to and detractors from the Fund’s performance results, as well as Meritage Capital’s and the Sub-Adviser’s performance and reputation generally and their investment techniques, risk management controls and decision-making processes.

Accounts Using Comparable Strategies: The Trustees reviewed the information provided by Meritage Capital regarding an account that employs a comparable strategy to the Fund and the fees charged with respect to that account. The Trustees noted that Meritage Capital currently manages a registered commodity pool with a similar investment objective to that of the Fund at a higher management fee than the Fund. The Trustees also noted that one of Meritage Capital’s stated reasons for the lower fees for the Fund is that, unlike the private commodity pool, the Fund accesses its managed futures exposure through total return swaps and incurs the fees embedded in the swap transaction, which, in this instance, was the less expensive approach.

The Adviser’s Profitability: The Trustees received and considered current and projected profitability analyses prepared by each of Meritage Capital and the Sub-Adviser based on the fees paid under the Advisory Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement, respectively. The Trustees considered the profits, if any, that have been realized or are anticipated to be realized by Meritage Capital and the Sub-Adviser in connection with the operation of the Fund. The Trustees also reviewed and discussed the financial statement information provided by Meritage Capital for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, as well as for the year-to-date period ended June 30, 2015 in order to analyze the financial condition and stability and profitability of Meritage Capital. The Trustees further reviewed and discussed the audited financial statements provided by the Sub-Adviser for its fiscal years ended December 31, 2013 and 2014 in order to analyze the financial condition and stability and profitability of the Sub-Adviser.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
37
 


Insignia Macro Fund
Additional Information

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
Economies of Scale: The Trustees considered whether economies of scale in the provision of services to the Fund will be passed along to the shareholders under the proposed Advisory Agreement.

Other Benefits to the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser: The Trustees reviewed and considered any other incidental benefits derived or to be derived by Meritage Capital and by the Sub-Adviser from their relationship with the Fund, noting that neither Meritage Capital nor the Sub-Adviser engages in soft dollar arrangements.

During the review process, the Trustees noted certain instances where clarification or follow-up was appropriate and others where the Trustees determined that further clarification or follow-up was not necessary. In those instances where clarification or follow-up was requested, the Board determined that in each case either information responsive to its requests had been provided, or where any request was outstanding in whole or in part, given the totality of the information provided, the Board had received sufficient information to approve the Advisory Agreement with Meritage Capital and the Sub-Advisory Agreement with the Sub-Adviser.

The Board summarized its deliberations with respect to the Advisory Agreement with Meritage Capital and the Sub-Advisory Agreement with the Sub-Adviser. In selecting Meritage Capital as the Fund’s adviser and the fees charged under the Advisory Agreement and the Sub-Adviser as the Fund’s sub-adviser and the fees charged under the Sub-Advisory Agreement, the Trustees concluded that no single factor reviewed by the Trustees was identified by the Trustees to be determinative as the principal factor in whether to approve the Advisory Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement. Further, the Independent Trustees were advised by separate independent legal counsel throughout the process. The Trustees, including all of the Independent Trustees, concluded that:

the contractual annual advisory fee of 1.25% to be paid to Meritage Capital under the Advisory Agreement and the contractual annual sub-advisory fees of 0.10% on the first $25 million, 0.18% on the next $25 million and 0.10% over $50 million, with an annual minimum of $25,000, paid by Meritage Capital to the Sub-Adviser under the Sub-Advisory Agreement and the total expense ratios of 2.00% and 1.75% for the Class A and Class I shares, respectively, of the Fund, taking into account the contractual fee waiver in place, were fair to the Fund’s shareholders;
the terms and provisions of the fee waiver letter agreement between the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, and Meritage Capital were not unreasonable;
the nature, extent and quality of services rendered by Meritage Capital under the Advisory Agreement and by the Sub-Adviser under the Sub-Advisory Agreement were adequate;
 

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Insignia Macro Fund
Additional Information

March 31, 2016 (Unaudited)
 
while the performance history of the Fund was short in that the Fund did not yet have a three-year track record, and although the Fund underperformed relative to its peer group, the overall performance of the Fund was within an acceptable range of the performance of the funds in its peer group provided by an independent provider of investment company data for the one-year period ended September 30, 2015;
bearing in mind the limitations of comparing different types of managed accounts and the different levels of service typically associated with such accounts, the fee structures applicable to Meritage Capital’s other clients employing a comparable strategy to the Fund were not indicative of any unreasonableness with respect to the advisory fee payable by the Fund;
the profit, if any, realized by Meritage Capital and the Sub-Adviser in connection with the operation of the Fund was not unreasonable to the Fund; and
there were no material economies of scale or other incidental benefits accruing to Meritage Capital or the Sub-Adviser in connection with their relationship with the Fund. Based on the Trustees’ deliberations and their evaluation of the information described above, the Trustees, including all of the Independent Trustees, concluded that Meritage Capital’s and the Sub-Adviser’s compensation for investment advisory and sub-advisory services, respectively, is consistent with the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders.
 
Based on the Trustees’ deliberations and their evaluation of the information described above, the Trustees, including all of the Independent Trustees, concluded that Meritage Capital’s and the Sub-Adviser’s compensation for investment advisory and sub-advisory services, respectively, is consistent with the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders.

On May 27, 2016, the Trustees met in person to discuss, among other things, supplemental information they received comparing the Fund’s contractual annual advisory fee and overall expenses with those of funds in the peer group selected by an independent provider of investment company data (the “Independent Data Provider”). It was noted that this supplemental information included the corrected total expense ratios of the Funds’ Class A and Class I shares of 2.00% and 1.75%, respectively, rather than the total expense ratios of 1.75% and 1.50% for the Fund’s Class A and Class I shares, respectively, included in the Independent Data Provider’s peer group information provided in the materials for the Trustees’ November 19, 2015 meeting. It was further noted that other materials provided to the Trustees in connection with the November 19, 2015 meeting correctly disclosed the current total expense ratios for the Fund’s Class A and Class I shares of 2.00% and 1.75%, respectively.

After reviewing the supplemental information received from the Independent Data Provider, the Trustees noted that (i) the Fund’s Class A total expense ratio of 2.00% is slightly above the peer group average and peer group median and (ii) the Fund’s Class I total expense ratio of 1.75% is slightly above the peer group average and peer group median. Based on the Trustees’ review of this supplemental information, the Trustees, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, concluded that the difference in the total expense ratios was not material and would not have effected their deliberations and conclusion at the November 19, 2015 meeting that Meritage Capital’s and the Sub-Adviser’s compensation for investment advisory and sub-advisory services, respectively, is consistent with the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders.
 

Semi-Annual Report  |  March 31, 2016
39
 

 
 
 
Page Intentionally Left Blank
 
 
 

 


Item 2.
Code of Ethics.

Not applicable to this report.

Item 3. Audit Committee Financial Expert.

Not applicable to this report.

Item 4. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

Not applicable to this report.

Item 5. Audit Committee of Listed Registrants.

Not applicable to the registrant.

Item 6. Investments.

(a) Schedule of Investments is included as part of the Reports to Stockholders filed under Item 1 of this Form N-CSR.

(b) Not applicable.

Item 7. Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies.
 
Not applicable to the registrant.

Item 8. Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

Not applicable to the registrant.

Item 9. Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers.

Not applicable to the registrant.

Item 10. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

There have been no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the registrant’s Board of Trustees, where those changes were implemented after the registrant last provided disclosure in response to the requirements of Item 407(c)(2)(iv) of Regulation S-K, or this Item.

Item 11. Controls and Procedures.

(a)
The registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have evaluated the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) within 90 days of this report and have concluded that the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of that date.

(b)
There was no change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Item 12. Exhibits.

(a)(1)
Not applicable to this report.

(a)(2) The certifications required by Rule 30a-2(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 are attached hereto as Exhibit 99.Cert.

(a)(3)
None.

(b) The certifications by the registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as required by Rule 30a-2(b) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 are attached hereto as Exhibit 99.906Cert.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

ALPS SERIES TRUST
 
   
By:
/s/ Jeremy O. May
 
 
Jeremy O. May
 
 
President (Principal Executive Officer)
 
     
Date:
June 6, 2016
 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

By:
/s/ Jeremy O. May
 
 
Jeremy O. May
 
 
President (Principal Executive Officer)
 
     
Date:
June 6, 2016
 

By:
/s/ Kimberly R. Storms
 
 
Kimberly R. Storms
 
 
Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer)
 
     
Date:
June 6, 2016